Corner of a Butcher Shop; verso: Untitled [Sketch of animals] 1918

Curator: Lovis Corinth's sketch, "Corner of a Butcher Shop," is a rather visceral image rendered in what appears to be crayon. The verso contains an untitled sketch of animals. Editor: Initially, I’m struck by the cool blues contrasting with the harsh reality of the subject matter. It almost feels like a commentary on sanitizing violence, or perhaps a detached observation of mortality. Curator: Yes, I see that juxtaposition as well. The blue could represent the coolness of death, but also the symbolic blue of spiritual transformation. Corinth often imbues his work with layers of meaning. Editor: I wonder how this piece sits within Corinth’s broader artistic trajectory. Was he exploring themes of social injustice, or was this a purely formal exercise in capturing light and shadow? I think we should acknowledge the historical context of meat consumption. Curator: Good point, and I suspect a bit of both. Consider the hook as a symbolic link between the earthly and spiritual planes—a visual motif he might have used elsewhere in less obvious ways. Editor: Precisely, so many conflicting ideas in one image! It really showcases the power of art to provoke and challenge viewers, even with such a seemingly simple sketch.