Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
How did Max Ernst contribute to Surrealism?
1 Answer

Max Ernst contributed to Surrealism by pushing the boundaries of the movement with his unconventional methods of printmaking, drawing and collage. He invented frottage (French for “rubbing”), wherein an artist rubs a pencil or crayon over a paper atop a textured surface, and later grattage (French for “scraping”), where a similar technique is applied with paint. Both methods showcase Ernst’s fascination with the unconscious and serendipitous elements of artistic creation, a theme that resonated with the Dadaists and the Surrealists. Ernst had deep knowledge of psychoanalysis and Sigmund Freud’s dream theories, which were big influences on Surrealists. He was among the first Surrealists to use Freud’s work to examine his own creative impulses. He also published a series of books of his collages, all of which were deeply symbolic and often philosophical. Explore a selection of Max Ernst art on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
Related Questions
- How did Max Ernst use Surrealism?1 Answer
- How did Joan Miró contribute to Surrealism?1 Answer
- Where did Max Ernst live?1 Answer
- Where can I see Max Ernst paintings?1 Answer
- How much are Max Ernst paintings worth?1 Answer
Shop for Max Ernst Art on 1stDibs
original lithograph
By Max Ernst
Located in Henderson, NV
Medium: original lithograph. Catalogue reference Spies/Leppien 202. Published in 1971 by XXe Siecle. Sheet size: 12 1/4 x 9 3/8 inches (310 x 238 mm). Not signed.
Category
1970s Surrealist Figurative Prints
Materials
Lithograph
Max Ernst Dada Surrealist Hand Signed Lithograph Poster for a Jewish Museum
By Max Ernst
Located in Surfside, FL
Max Ernst (German, American, 1891-1976)
Color lithograph
Titled, "Poster For The Jewish Museum"
1966
Hand signed lower right
Hand numbered HC I/XVII
Dimensions: 34.75 x 28.5 sight 2...
Category
1960s Surrealist Abstract Prints
Materials
Lithograph
Ficus Elastica - Original lithograph - Limited / 25 copies
By Max Ernst
Located in Paris, IDF
Max ERNST (1891-1976)
Ficus Elastica, c. 1965
Original lithograph
Unsigned
Numbered / XXV copies
On Japanese paper 57 x 42 cm
INFORMATION: Edition produced by Lucien Treillard, pub...
Category
1960s Surrealist Figurative Prints
Materials
Lithograph
Untitled (Two Birds) - Etching by Max Ernst - 1972
By Max Ernst
Located in Roma, IT
Etching and aquatint on Japan paper, realized in 1972.
Printed and published by Georges Visat, Paris.
Edition of 100, numbered 99/100 and hand signed in pencil.
Category
1970s Surrealist Abstract Prints
Materials
Etching
Electra (Spies/Leppien 21A), Société internationale d'art XXe siècle
By Max Ernst
Located in Southampton, NY
Lithograph on vélin paper. Paper Size: 12.4 x 9.65 inches. Inscription: Signed in the plate and unnumbered, as issued. Catalogue raisonné references: Ernst, Max, et al. Max Ernst : G...
Category
1930s Surrealist Landscape Prints
Materials
Lithograph
$1,196 Sale Price
20% Off
Surrealist Dream : Couple of Roosters - Original lithograph (Spies #p. 438)
By Max Ernst
Located in Paris, IDF
Max Ernst (1891-1976)
Surrealist Dream : Couple of Roosters, 1970
Original color lithograph
Printed signature in the plate
On Arches vellum 33.5 × 61 cm (c. 13 x 24 in)
REFERENCES...
Category
1970s Surrealist Animal Prints
Materials
Lithograph