Akrobat in der Brücke, Detail (Backbend, Detail) [p. 17]

Max Beckmann

Associated Names
Max Beckmann

Artist, German, 1884 - 1950

The image consists of loosely drawn, curving lines and sharp angles scattered across the page in an abstract composition. The intersecting lines form shapes that may evoke a reclining figure and a facial profile. Overlapping lines below create a layered structure resembling crossed beams or tangled wires.
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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

    1984.64.35.9

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Zeiller/Presler 2010, no. 9r

Associated Artworks

See all 17 artworks
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.

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

Max Beckmann

1884

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

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: 596-597, no. 9r

Wikidata ID

Q64610248

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