Artwork
Der Smaragd
Der Smaragd is a drawing by Otto Friedrich Carl Lendecke. It dates from 1915 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Der Smaragd is a pencil study created by Otto Friedrich Carl Lendecke in 1915, originally intended as a preparatory work for a watercolor illustration in the magazine Simplicissimus.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a serene yet subtly tense scene of a woman reclining on a couch, wrapped in a blanket, with a man sitting beside her, holding her hand. An arched canopy and a suspended mirror or picture frame complete the intimate setting.
Technique & Style
Characterized by simple, precise lines and confident, quick strokes, the drawing prioritizes shapes and shadows over intricate details. This approach imparts a sharp, modern feel to the forms.
History & Provenance
The sheet features a reversed tracing of the drawing on its reverse, omitting details outside the oval. It bears the stamp of 'Bibliothek Dr. von Ankwicz' on both sides, indicating its past ownership or cataloging.
Context
As a preparatory study for Simplicissimus, Der Smaragd reflects Lendecke's contribution to the magazine's illustrative content, suggesting a intended audience familiar with the publication's themes and style.
Legacy
While specific lasting impacts of Der Smaragd are not highlighted, its technique and the artist's use of minimal detail to convey mood may influence or reflect broader early 20th-century artistic tendencies towards simplicity and expressive shading.
Artist & collection
Artist
Otto Friedrich Carl Lendecke drew quiet, detailed scenes from turn-of-the-century life.
