Zwei Gesichter (Sketches of Two Faces) [p. 37]

Max Beckmann

Associated Names
Max Beckmann

Artist, German, 1884 - 1950

The image displays an arrangement of curving lines and sharp angles on a plain background, forming an abstract composition. The larger shape at the top resembles an irregular cloud or an amoeba-like form encircled with several inward and outward extending lines. Below, another set of jagged lines is present, which could suggest the outline of a mountain range or stylized waves. The simplicity of the lines allows viewers to draw connections to familiar yet undefined objects in an abstract context.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    graphite on paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Mrs. Max Beckmann

  • Dimensions

    page size: 20 x 16.1 cm (7 7/8 x 6 5/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1984.64.59.20

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Zeiller/Presler 2010, no. 19r

Associated Artworks

See all 23 artworks
The sketch shows a partial side profile of a person's upper body and head seated and facing right. The person's left arm is extended with a pointing gesture. The facial features, including an emphasized nose and hint of a mustache, are simplistic. The person has short, straight hair and is wearing a jacket or coat. In their right hand, they hold a long object resembling a cigarette. The background is minimally outlined, appearing to hint at other figures or elements. The sketch is on textured paper, giving it an aged appearance.

Während der Vorstellung (During a performance) [p. 1]

Max Beckmann

1884

This is a photograph of an old notebook cover. The image depicts a worn and aged cover of a notebook or sketchbook with a paper label affixed to the center. The label is bordered by a Greek key pattern in blue. The handwritten notes on the label appear to be in faded ink, with cursive script. The notebook shows signs of wear with dog-eared corners and paper deterioration at the edges. The overall appearance suggests it has been used over a considerable period.

Beckmann Sketchbook 25

Max Beckmann

1921

The sketch features two minimalist pencil-drawn figures in dynamic poses. The figures are shown from head to toe, suggesting mid-motion activity such as dancing. The facial features are minimal and the hair is lightly suggested. The figures wear form-fitting clothing and no objects are held. The background is plain, emphasizing the focus on the figures.

Tanzendes Paar (Dancing Couple) [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: 583, no. 19r

Wikidata ID

Q64612650

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