Opinions about the work of Hans von Marées (1837-1887) are divided; some consider him a failed artist, while others believe he laid the foundation for modernism in Germany. What is the reason for this enduring contradiction in how his painting is perceived? And what significance does his work, which is displayed in a dedicated space at the Neue Pinakothek in Munich, hold for a contemporary artist like Olaf Metzel (*1952)? The approach through a dual exhibition was initially proposed by Metzel, as the sculptor deliberately sought to engage with the idea that the neo-idealistic approach of the German Romans, a group of German artists and writers in Rome to which von Marées belonged, is part of those highly praised European visions that are now being attacked by politically opposing factions. Paintings by Hans von Marées are juxtaposed with some of the most progressive sculptures.