The Man, Plate 6 of 'Annual Fair' - Max Beckmann

A powerful drypoint etching by Max Beckmann, 'The Man' is Plate 6 from his 'Annual Fair' portfolio. This expressionistic print captures the social anxieties of post-WWI Germany with bold lines and striking figures, making it a compelling addition to any art collection.

This striking drypoint etching, 'The Man', is Plate 6 from Max Beckmann's portfolio 'Annual Fair' (Jahrmarkt). Beckmann, a pivotal figure in 20th-century German art, particularly the New Objectivity movement, created this portfolio in 1921, reflecting the tumultuous social and political climate of post-World War I Germany. The print showcases Beckmann's signature expressionistic style, characterised by bold lines, distorted figures, and a palpable sense of unease. The composition features a trio of figures rendered in stark black lines against a warm orange ground. The central figure, a man with a somber expression, dominates the scene. To his right, a figure in a hat gazes upwards, while a smaller, partially obscured face lurks in the background. The scene evokes a sense of theatricality and psychological tension, typical of Beckmann's work. The drypoint technique lends a unique texture to the print, with velvety blacks and crisp lines enhancing the dramatic effect. As a fine art print, 'The Man' brings a touch of historical gravitas and artistic intensity to any space. Its bold imagery and thought-provoking subject matter make it a compelling conversation piece, ideal for those who appreciate modern art with a strong narrative.