Artwork

Ice on the River

Ice on the River, by Max Beckmann, oil, 1923
Ice on the River, by Max Beckmann, oil, 1923

Ice on the River is an oil painting by Max Beckmann. It dates from 1923 and is held in the collection of the Städel Museum.

About this work

Overview

Ice on the River is a 1923 oil painting by Max Beckmann, a German artist associated with the New Objectivity movement. The work is part of the Städel Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a frozen river scene in a cityscape, with a gray sky and buildings in the background. Beckmann's representation of a winter landscape conveys a sense of unease and psychological tension, characteristic of his style.

Technique & Style

The painting features bold lines, vivid colors, and visible brushstrokes, giving it a textured appearance. Beckmann's use of oil paint creates a sense of coldness and isolation, underscoring the winter scene's somber mood.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Max Beckmann

Artist

Max Beckmann

Max Carl Friedrich Beckmann (February 12, 1884 – December 27, 1950) was a German painter, draftsman, printmaker, sculptor, and writer.

Städel Museum

Museum

Städel Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Städel Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.