I. Introduction
A brush with history, an enchanting sojourn into the world of József Borsos – the illustrious 19th-century Hungarian artist. I’ve breathed life into his creation, “He loves me… he loves me not” or “The Decision of the Flower” (1856), a timeless ode to love’s fickle game.
Venturing forth, we’ll waltz through the painting’s history, the subtleties of Borsos’ artistic flair, and the symbolism woven into its fabric. I shall reveal my inspirations and the painstaking process that birthed my homage to this masterpiece.
With a flourish, I extend an invitation to you, dear reader. Explore the enigma that is Borsos through my Artmajeur page, where the recreated painting awaits a discerning eye. Delight in the transformative power of the final varnish on my YouTube channel, where art dances from matte to glossy splendor.
A. Background on József Borsos’ original artwork
József Borsos – a name that whispers secrets from the annals of history. A 19th-century virtuoso who wielded his brush like a sword, slicing through the fabric of time. “Szeret-nem szeret” (1856) – his pièce de résistance.
Two young damsels, petals plucked in pursuit of love’s verdict. A tableau of innocence entwined with sensuality. Borsos dared to defy the era’s norms, courting controversy like a tempestuous lover.
Viennese critics’ quills danced with disdain, likening the heroines to Phryné, the ancient courtesan. Biblical lilies, symbols of purity, betrayed by the prophecy of requited love. A paradoxical masterpiece, veiled in enigma.
B. Brief overview of the recreation process
A daunting task – recreating Borsos’ enigmatic opus. Like sculpting shadows from moonlight. But, an artist’s heart knows no bounds.
Square canvas, a touch of rebellion. Ode to the original’s oval. Rich, warm hues – the artist’s élan vital breathed into every stroke. Dutch still-life’s influence, a nod to the masters.
Delicate details – earrings, bracelets, floral adornments. A symphony of oil and pigment, an homage to the genius of yore. Divine light, transformative power – our heroine’s radiant countenance, a beacon of hope.
Varnish – the final touch. The canvas transformed, from matte and dull to glossy and vibrant. A rebirth of color, a dance of light. Borsos’ spirit lives on, eternal in the art of painting.
II. The Original Painting: “He loves me… he loves me not”
A. Historical context and significance
Ah, the 19th century. A time of transformation, conflict, and art. Borsos – a master amid turmoil, capturing life’s subtleties. “He loves me… he loves me not” – a piece daring, enchanting, provocative. Contemporaries abuzz, Viennese critique likening subjects to Phryné herself. Innocence? Sensuality? Both, perhaps. Borsos’ genius: painting duality, provoking thought. A historical gem, our beloved artwork, now reborn.
B. Artistic techniques and elements
Borsos’ brush – a conduit for beauty, whispers of Dutch still-life. Oil paints, élan vital incarnate. Warm hues, divine light – symbols of hope, love, knowledge. Each detail exquisite, bracelets, earrings, flowers. Ethereal faces, porcelain-like, pulsating. Caressed by chiaroscuro, a dance of light and shadow. Italianate coloration, a subtle nod to Amerling. Techniques timeless, alluring, capturing essence of life.
C. Symbolism and meaning
Divine light bathes fortunate heroine, spiritual potential unveiled. Lily – biblical purity, innocence, yet prophetic love. Sensuality, moral decline, Phryné’s echoes. Subtle nuance, enigmatic meaning, beneath charming smiles. The transformative power of divine light, a glimpse into souls. Art, a mirror of life’s complexity, whispered through Borsos’ hand.
Suho Art 