Saint Michael 1923

Editor: This is Lovis Corinth's "Saint Michael," an etching. It feels incredibly dramatic, almost chaotic, with the dark lines and swirling forms. What do you see in this piece, especially considering the context of its creation? Curator: Corinth created this print during a period of great social and political upheaval in Germany. Consider how the figure of Saint Michael, often seen as a symbol of order and divine justice, is rendered here with such expressive, almost violent, energy. How might that reflect the anxieties of the time? Editor: That's a great point. The traditional image of St. Michael is one of triumphant victory, but here, there's a sense of struggle. Curator: Exactly. Corinth’s print challenges the traditional representation, reflecting the social and political turmoil influencing the public's perception of authority and justice. He compels the viewer to question established power structures. Editor: So, the artwork acts as a mirror, reflecting the uncertainties of the era. Thank you! Curator: Indeed. It's a potent reminder of how art engages with its socio-political environment.