Saul and David 1923

Editor: This is Lovis Corinth’s "Saul and David." The material looks like tanned hide or parchment. Its surface is mottled and stained in a way that feels aged and worn. What can you tell me about the materiality of this work? Curator: Considering Corinth’s social milieu, the choice of such base materials could be a deliberate commentary. How does the use of possibly discarded or repurposed material affect our understanding of the biblical narrative depicted? Does it elevate or cheapen the subject? Editor: That's a fascinating point. It makes me consider how the physical making of the artwork impacts its reception. Curator: Exactly. Reflecting on the labor involved and the origin of these materials adds another layer of meaning. Editor: I'll never look at art the same way again.