Artwork
The Married Couple Müller (Ehepaar Müller)
The Married Couple Müller (Ehepaar Müller) is an ink print by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. It dates from 1919 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left in graphite: Eigendruck; lower right in graphite: EL Kirchner
About this work
Overview
The Married Couple Müller is a 1919 woodcut by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, a key figure in the development of German Expressionism. Created on pink blotting paper, the print showcases Kirchner's bold and emotive style.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts two faces in close proximity, their features rendered in sharp, angular lines against a plain black background. The faces are oriented in different directions, capturing a quiet, intimate moment.
Technique & Style
The woodcut technique, involving the cutting of shapes into wood and applying ink to create the print, is evident in the bold, carved lines. The use of pink blotting paper adds a distinctive contrast to the dark lines, highlighting Kirchner's expressive use of medium and color.
History & Provenance
Kirchner was a founding member of the artists' group Die Brücke, and his work was later condemned as 'degenerate' by the Nazi regime in 1933, resulting in the destruction or sale of many of his pieces.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (6 May 1880 – 15 June 1938) was a German expressionist painter and printmaker.
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