Akrobat in der Brücke (Backbend) [p. 1]

Max Beckmann

Associated Names
Max Beckmann

Artist, German, 1884 - 1950

The image displays fluid, curving lines weaving through the composition. The lines create an abstract form with a sense of movement, coalescing to suggest the outline of a reclining figure with one arm extended overhead. The shapes intertwine to form contours resembling a person's torso and arm, with a shaded area suggestive of a face in repose. Overlapping and angular lines in one corner hint at an abstract representation of a bed or cushion beneath the figure.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    graphite on paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Mrs. Max Beckmann

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 11 x 20.5 cm (4 5/16 x 8 1/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1984.64.35.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Zeiller/Presler 2010, no. 1r

Associated Artworks

See all 17 artworks

Beckmann Sketchbook 27

Max Beckmann

1922

The image displays pencil lines and shapes, including curved and angular forms resembling the outline of a hand grasping a geometrical object. The composition shows overlapping linear shapes, suggesting fingers or mechanical components folding over a rectangular box. There is structure and movement in the interaction of these elements, creating a connection to the act of holding or handling an object. Rust-colored stains on the paper add texture and visual interest.

Akrobat in der Brücke und weitere Figur (Backbend with Onlooker) [p. 3]

Max Beckmann

1884

The image displays bold, fluid lines and shapes that form an abstract composition. The lines curve and intersect, creating an impression of familiar objects such as a reclining figure or a face. Among the lines, hinted shapes resemble the contours of a hand or fingers. The drawing's simplicity and freehand style contribute to its abstract nature.

Akrobat in der Brücke (Backbend) [p. 5]

Max Beckmann

1884

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Mrs. Max Beckmann, Peoria; gift to NGA, 1984.

Associated Names

Bibliography

2010

  • Zeiller, Christiane, Gerd Presler.Max Beckmann : die Skizzenbücher = the sketchbooks. II. Ostifildern, 2010: 594, no. 1r

Wikidata ID

Q64610203

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