Max Pechstein, Italian Landscape, 1911 by Atelier Liesjes

A lively, expressionistic watercolour (or gouache/ink) depicting a Tuscan or Italian village landscape: a winding road or path leads through hilly terrain with cypress trees (dark, pointed trees) and houses with red roofs and walls in warm ochre/brown. Figures (possibly farmers or travellers) and cyclists or walkers in dark clothing are walking on the road. The sky is clear blue with clouds, the colours are fresh and transparent (blue, green, yellow, red-orange), with black contours and a dynamic composition full of movement; signed ' "HMP 1911"'.
Meaning This work from 1911 was created during Pechstein's trip to Italy (Tuscany/Florence), where he combined the classical beauty of the landscape with his expressive style. The landscape symbolises freedom, light and an escape from German reality – a search for harmony and vitality after the Brücke period. The figures on the road suggest movement and everyday life, with an exotic, sunny tone that reflects Pechstein's fascination with southern cultures. It marks his transition to more fluid, colourful works. Technique Watercolour (possibly with gouache and ink) on paper: transparent, fluid washes for sky and landscape, combined with strong black contours and vivid colours (blue, green, yellow, red). Loose brushstrokes and overlaps give a fresh, dynamic impression; typical of Pechstein's early Italian period – expressive but harmonious, with a decorative effect and strong contrasts, inspired by direct observation and Fauvist influences.

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.