Artwork

Gruppe im Sturm (Couple in a Storm) from Deutsche Graphiker der Gegenwart (German Printmakers of Our Time)

Ernst Barlach , 1919

Gruppe im Sturm (Couple in a Storm) from Deutsche Graphiker der Gegenwart (German Printmakers of Our Time) is an ink print by Ernst Barlach. It dates from 1919 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Gruppe im Sturm (Couple in a Storm) is a 1919 woodcut by Ernst Barlach, featured in the portfolio Deutsche Graphiker der Gegenwart, a mixed-media volume showcasing contemporary German printmakers.

Subject & Meaning

The woodcut depicts a couple enveloped in a turbulent storm. The woman's obscured face and the man's downward gaze suggest a moment of vulnerability and concern amidst chaos, potentially reflecting Barlach's anti-war sentiments informed by his wartime experiences.

Technique & Style

Barlach's graphic style is characterized by bold contrasts and expressive lines in this woodcut, capturing the storm's energy and movement. The stark black-and-white palette heightens the dramatic intensity of the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1919, Gruppe im Sturm was part of a portfolio that highlighted Barlach's work alongside other notable German printmakers of the time, marking his contribution to the intersection of Realism and Expressionism.

Context

Barlach's wartime experiences significantly influenced his artistic stance, shifting towards anti-war themes. This woodcut reflects this period of his work, blending personal and societal commentary.

Legacy

As part of Deutsche Graphiker der Gegenwart, Gruppe im Sturm contributes to the historical record of early 20th-century German graphic arts, showcasing Barlach's versatility as a sculptor, printmaker, and writer.