Letter E: Angel c. 1912

Editor: Lovis Corinth's "Letter E: Angel" at the Harvard Art Museums is a striking work. It looks like a monochromatic sketch, and the figure seems to be emerging from the letter itself. What can you tell me about the composition? Curator: The strength of this work lies in the tension between form and content. Note the stark contrast between the bold, almost crude, lines defining the "E," and the more delicate rendering of the angel figure within. Editor: I see what you mean about the tension. Curator: Consider the formal properties: line, shape, and texture. How do these elements interact to create a sense of dynamism? Editor: It's like the angel is breaking free from the constraints of the letterform. Curator: Precisely. The artist manipulates these formal qualities to suggest movement and liberation. Editor: That's a fresh way of looking at it. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, a compelling study in the language of form.