The Choosing of Saul (1 Samuel 9-12) 1923

Editor: Here we have Lovis Corinth’s "The Choosing of Saul (1 Samuel 9-12)". It's hard to tell the medium exactly, but it feels raw, immediate. What do you see in this piece, beyond the biblical narrative? Curator: Corinth created this work during a period of immense social and political upheaval in Germany. The biblical story of Saul's selection as king becomes a lens through which to examine themes of power, authority, and the burdens of leadership. Do you think Corinth is pointing to a flawed system of divine right? Editor: That's a thought-provoking perspective. I was initially drawn to the composition, but your interpretation adds layers of complexity. Curator: The rough lines and stark contrasts serve to underscore the anxiety and instability of the time, reflecting the artist’s own grappling with societal transformation. Editor: I never considered the societal parallels before. Thank you!