Artwork
Portrait of Zeretelli
Portrait of Zeretelli is an oil painting by the German Expressionist artist Max Beckmann. It dates from 1927 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister.
About this work
Overview
Portrait of Zeretelli is an oil painting created by Max Beckmann in 1927. The work is characterized by its bold lines and vibrant colors, capturing a seated male figure against a simple, contrasting background.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Zeretelli, is portrayed with a serious facial expression and confident posture. Beckmann imbues the otherwise neutral depiction with an underlying sense of moodiness, typical of his approach to even seemingly calm subjects.
Technique & Style
Beckmann's technique in this portrait reflects his association with New Objectivity, a movement emphasizing detachment over Expressionism's emotional intensity. The bold, expressive lines and vivid color palette (notably the blue shirt and pants against a gray and black background) add depth and emotional nuance.
History & Provenance
Painted in 1927, Portrait of Zeretelli is now part of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection. Despite being created during a period when Beckmann was linked to New Objectivity, the artist personally rejected being labeled under any specific movement.
Context
Emerging from the Expressionist movement, New Objectivity's influence on Beckmann is evident in the portrait's objective yet emotionally charged depiction. This balance reflects the artistic transitions of the 1920s in Germany.
Artist & collection
Artist
Max Carl Friedrich Beckmann (February 12, 1884 – December 27, 1950) was a German painter, draftsman, printmaker, sculptor, and writer.
