Max Beckmann

The Artist (or Draughtsman) in Society (Der Zeichner in Gesellschaft)

1922

Max Beckmann (1884-1950), The Artist (or Draughtsman) in Society (Der Zeichner in Gesellschaft), drypoint, 1922, signed in pencil and inscribed "probedruck" (trial proof), on cream wove paper. Reference: Hofmaier 230, second state (of 3). In good condition apart from the usual printer's creases found in Beckmann proofs (one at the center, others on or near margins), minor soiling in margins from printing, with wide margins, 12 3/4 x 9 1/4, the sheet 19 x 11 3/4 inches, archival mounting.

A fine impression, with a light veil of plate tone; the drypoint burr quite vivid and effective.

Only a few trial proofs were made before this print was editioned (edition of 150). Hoffmaier notes only 1 in the first state and 2 in the second. In our second state impresssion a number of changes have yet to be made: nails are entered on the right hand of the artist and creases added to his left elbow; the center leg of the stool is darkened; a cuff is added to the pants of the man at the right and his shoe is shaded.

The artist drawing is Rudolf Grossman (1882-1941), a figure known for his adept draughtsmanship, and his habit of drawing wherever he found himself. The seated figure with glasses just to the right of Grossman is the Munich painter Rolf E. von Hoerschelmann (1885-1947).