Der Snob (ca. 1928)

"Der Snob" by Karl Wiener, painted around 1928, is a vibrant and expressive work that exemplifies the colorful imagination and critical eye of its creator. This painting features a man seated comfortably in an armchair, surrounded by a chaotic yet intriguing assortment of objects that seem to define his identity and social status.The character, depicted with an exaggerated and somewhat caricatured face, exudes a sense of self-satisfaction and detachment that seems to be a commentary on the cultural snobbery of the time. His environment is cluttered with books showcasing famous names like Nietzsche, Ford, Goethe, and Kerri, indicating a fascination or obsession with intellectual and cultural figures. This could suggest his attempt to align himself with these high cultural icons to portray a certain self-image.Around him, the room is filled with vividly painted walls covered in artwork, including what appears to be abstract and figurative pieces, emphasizing the character's appreciation or perhaps pretension to a refined artistic taste. One noticeable feature is the text "Komposition II" beside one of the artworks, possibly pointing to a preference for modern or avant-garde art forms that were popular among the elite during the 1920s.Drastically bold colors and dynamic brush strokes give the painting an almost chaotic vibrancy, reflecting perhaps the inner turmoil or overstimulated state of the featured snob.