Portrait of Franz Heinrich Corinth with a Glass of Wine Lovis Corinth (1858-1925)

The composition presents a seated male figure in a formal setting. He is positioned slightly off-center, gazing directly at the viewer with an expression that appears both contemplative and somewhat weary. The man wears a dark suit, accented by a light-colored bow tie and visible vest, suggesting a degree of affluence or professional standing. A ring adorns his hand, resting casually on a surface partially obscured by a draped cloth.
The artist has employed a palette dominated by somber tones – deep blacks, browns, and muted greens – which contribute to an atmosphere of introspection and perhaps even melancholy. The lighting is focused primarily on the man’s face and hands, highlighting their texture and detail while leaving the background in relative shadow. This concentrated illumination draws immediate attention to his features and gestures.
A glass chalice, partially filled with a dark liquid (presumably wine), sits upon the draped surface alongside a single rose. These objects introduce symbolic elements into the scene. The chalice, traditionally associated with ritual or celebration, is presented here in a somewhat solitary context, potentially hinting at isolation or a sense of quiet indulgence. The rose, often representing beauty and fleeting pleasure, adds another layer of complexity to this interpretation.
The man’s posture – leaning on his arm with a relaxed but slightly slumped stance – conveys an impression of world-weariness or perhaps a moment of respite from some unseen burden. His gaze is direct, yet lacks the vibrancy of genuine engagement; it suggests a certain detachment. The overall effect is one of psychological depth and understated narrative. It’s not merely a depiction of a man but rather an exploration of his inner state, conveyed through carefully considered details and a restrained use of color and light.