Independent-minded, Cornelius Baba (1906 -1997) developed a personal realism that was very different from the stereotypes of Socialist Realism. His themes, which jaunt closely, to party lines, show profound originality. He was most deeply influenced by expressionism, which became the main characteristic of his paintings. His work reveals other sources of inspiration, as well. The mystery that suffuses his work is similar to that in the Byzantine icons. The intense light and shadow of the Flemish masters adds contrast to his dark warm colors. Baba's life mirrors the unsettled century.Nevertheless, his paintings remain timeless. His reputation, which is well established from Danube to the Yang-Tse Kiang, is just being discovered in the Western world.