Max Pechstein, Fisherman by the Sea, 1920 by Atelier Liesjes

A dynamic, expressive drawing in ink (or pen/brush on paper): fishermen by a boat on the beach or in shallow water. In the centre, a boat with three figures – one standing at the bow with an oar or net, another bent over the edge (possibly pulling or unloading a net), and a third on land helping. The sea is wavy with short lines, background with sailing boats on the horizon, flying birds and a large shining sun with rays. The style is angular and fluid at the same time, with strong contours and quick, striking lines on beige paper; signed 'H. Pechstein 1920' (or variant) and dated. Meaning
This work from 1920 falls within Pechstein's period of intensive stays on the Baltic Sea (e.g. Nidden/Kurisches Nehrung), where he befriended fishermen and documented their hard life. It symbolises labour, the struggle against the elements and harmony with nature – themes from his "Fischerleben" series (most of which has been lost). After the First World War and his internment, it celebrates the simplicity and vitality of the fisherman's life, in contrast to modern chaos. The sun and waves radiate hope and vitality, typical of his post-war expression of primal power and simplicity. Technique
Pen and ink (or brush in ink) on paper: quick, expressive lines of varying thickness for dynamism and movement. Little detail, focus on silhouettes and rhythm (waves, birds, rays); a sketch-like, spontaneous style that shows Pechstein's graphic background – often preparatory for paintings or as independent work in his Ostsee period.

Hermann Max Pechstein (Zwickau, 31 December 1881 – Berlin, 29 June 1955) was a painter from Germany. Pechstein is considered an important representative of Expressionism. In 1918, after the First World War, Pechstein co-founded the Arbeitsrat für Kunst (Workers' Council for Art) and in 1922 he became a member of the Prussian Academy of Arts.