In honor of Florence Goldberg

Last week, we marked the passing of Florence Goldberg, Mort’s beloved mother-in-law. A woman who brought a remarkable vitality and grace to her 100 years of life, she shone great kindness into the lives of all who knew her. A voracious reader on any and all subjects, both Florence and her late husband Louis passed their loving and curious nature on to their children. Their faith in Mort as an artist, and the gift of their daughter in his life, have sustained and encouraged the entire family for generations. I think Mort may have put it best in the fourth volume of The Civil War Art of Mort Künstler, which he dedicated “to Florence and the late Louis Goldberg – with much love and appreciation for allowing your daughter to marry a starving artist.” We, too, now express our appreciation as we remember Mrs. Goldberg, a woman whose smile and presence so brightened the world around her.

~K.B.

The Making of a Masterpiece - 10

The Angel of the Battlefield

Clara Barton with Walt Whitman at Chatham, December 1862

Beyond the courage and compassion that she showed on the battlefield, Clara Barton’s greatest feat was the founding of the American Red Cross. According to their website, “Barton's legacy is reflected in the volunteers and services provided daily by the American Red Cross today.” I hope this painting passes on to the viewer the emotions that I felt while painting it and is accepted as my personal tribute to Clara Barton and the entire nursing profession. What would we do without them? - Mort Künstler

The Making of a Masterpiece - 9

The Angel of the Battlefield

Clara Barton with Walt Whitman at Chatham, December 1862

Lying among this sea of bloody blue uniforms was a number of gray-clad wounded in need. One rebel, Captain Thurman Thomas of the 13th Mississippi Volunteers, was caught behind enemy lines, but grateful for the mercy he received. Barton treated the wounded Confederate with the same care and concern that she employed with her own boys. Her act of charity for Thomas and his companions echoed the sentiment that true compassion drew no political distinction.

The Making of a Masterpiece - 8

The Angel of the Battlefield

Clara Barton with Walt Whitman at Chatham, December 1862

Known as the “Angel of the Battlefield,” Clara Barton remains one of the most beloved figures from the American Civil War. Her selfless dedication to aid others is still celebrated, and today The American Red Cross carries on her mission.

The Making of a Masterpiece - 7

The Angel of the Battlefield

Clara Barton with Walt Whitman at Chatham, December 1862

Walt Whitman had traveled from Brooklyn to Fredericksburg in search of his brother, who had been listed among the wounded at Fredericksburg. Later on Whitman found out that his brother had only suffered a superficial wound, yet Whitman stayed for nearly a month to aid the wounded.

The Making of a Masterpiece - 6

The Angel of the Battlefield
Clara Barton with Walt Whitman at Chatham, December 1862

By placing the scene outside, I was able to face southwest and not only get a view of the house but also capture the great vista of the 'Spires of Fredericksburg.' By setting the time of day at about sunset, the lighting became my best ally. - Mort Künstler