“Eye to Eye at Herculaneum” by André Romijn presents a compelling fusion of ancient and contemporary aesthetics. The use of oil and cold wax imbues the portrait with a textured depth that is reminiscent of the frescoes found in the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum. The technique suggests a deliberate nod to the past, an attempt to recapture the spirit of art that has survived for millennia.
The subject, a woman depicted with a serene gaze and a delicate blue veil, seems to bridge the gap between the ancient and the modern. Her direct look is engaging, creating a silent dialogue with the viewer, hence the title “Eye to Eye.” Romijn’s choice of a warm, golden background contrasts beautifully with the cool tones of the veil, highlighting the subject’s features.
A sense of timelessness
The distressed edges of the frame within the painting evoke the passage of time and the fragmentary nature of historical artifacts. The texture and the application of the medium, combined with the classical beauty of the subject, creates a sense of timelessness. This portrait, while styled in a manner that recalls ancient techniques, carries a freshness that speaks to the enduring quality of figurative art.
Romijn’s skillful blending of old and new invites contemplation of art’s role in connecting past and present, and the universal human expressions that transcend time. The artwork is a thoughtful study on the preservation of human history through art and the enduring need for face-to-face connections, even across the ages.
Details
- Size (h w d): 41 x 29cm
- Creation Date: 2021
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