The artwork, titled “Portrait of the Painter Hans Theo Richter and his Wife Gisela,” was created by Otto Dix in 1933. This painting, belonging to the Verism art movement, is a portrait genre and exemplifies Dix’s meticulous attention to detail and realism.
In the artwork, the painter Hans Theo Richter is depicted alongside his wife Gisela. Hans is adorned in a pristine white garment, accented by a single red rose pinned to his chest. His expression is serene, eyes gently closed, and hands resting on his lap. Gisela, positioned behind him, rests one hand on Hans’ shoulder while her other hand gently grasps his arm, showcasing the intimacy and connection between the couple. Her appearance is characterized by wavy, pale blond hair, and she is dressed in a dark, textured dress, creating a contrast against Hans’ white attire. The background is a warm, uniform shade of orange-brown, emphasizing the figures and their nuanced expressions and gestures. The date and artist’s initials are visible in the lower right corner, marking the significance of this profoundly expressive and personal portrait.