Schneewittchen und die Sieben Zwerge sowie einander liebkosende Gestalten c. 1860 - 1865

Curator: Good morning! Editor: Hi! We’re looking at "Schneewittchen und die Sieben Zwerge sowie einander liebkosende Gestalten", a pencil and chalk drawing on paper by Victor Müller, dating back to around 1860-1865. It feels quite ethereal, almost dreamlike in its composition. What stands out to you from a formalist perspective? Curator: Immediately, the spatial composition presents itself. Observe the division of the pictorial field; two distinct registers invite closer scrutiny. The upper segment holds looser figural arrangements; in contrast, the lower presents denser, almost intimate groupings. Editor: I see that, it’s like two separate studies combined onto one page. What’s the effect of that division? Curator: Precisely. The bipartite nature compels us to question the relationship, or perhaps the absence thereof, between these forms. Consider the role of line quality here; its nervous, searching quality evokes an ephemeral or transient state. Notice how this contributes to the atmospheric effect. What do you make of Müller’s handling of light and shadow? Editor: The subtle gradations give the figures volume without really defining them, does it lend itself to a sense of mystery? Curator: Indeed. Furthermore, consider how the lack of distinct outlines obscures precise readings, inviting multiple interpretations rather than imposing singular narratives. How does this elusiveness alter your perception of narrative elements like 'Snow White' and 'the dwarfs?' Editor: That's really interesting, the style feels a bit at odds with the very clear story of Snow White, like Müller isn’t as concerned with storytelling as he is with abstract relationships of forms. Curator: Precisely, which leads us to a core formalist assertion: artistic value lies in the work’s internal structure rather than its mimetic or narrative capacity. Editor: That makes so much sense! It's changed how I see the piece. I appreciate you pointing out those key elements. Curator: The pleasure was mine; observing, analyzing and questioning – the cornerstones of art appreciation.