A stark, monochromatic lithograph from the Gedichte und Lithographien series by German Neo-Expressionist artist Markus Lüpertz.

Markus Lüpertz is a central figure in German Neo-Expressionism, known for his rejection of traditional aesthetic constraints. This work originates from his collection titled Gedichte und Lithographien, an unbound book that synthesises his literary and visual output. The lithographic process allows for a directness that aligns with his broader practice, where the physical act of mark-making takes precedence over representational accuracy.

In this specific piece, the visual field is dominated by a profound density of tone. The application of ink creates a surface that absorbs light, challenging the viewer to engage with the texture and the subtle variations in the black pigment. Lüpertz often employs a raw, gestural approach to his subjects, whether he is depicting figures, objects, or, as seen here, near-monochromatic fields. By stripping away external references, the work forces an encounter with the materiality of the print itself.

Lüpertz has long maintained an interest in the relationship between poetry and the visual arts. This series functions as a dialogue between the written word and the graphic image. The lithographs do not merely illustrate the poems; they exist as autonomous entities that share the same conceptual space. His work from this period reflects a period of experimentation with form and medium, moving away from the figurative concerns that defined his earlier career. The result is a stark, uncompromising image that demands attention through its sheer presence. It is a study in reduction, where the absence of colour becomes a deliberate choice, directing the eye toward the subtle nuances of the ink and the paper grain. This print offers a glimpse into the artist's rigorous approach to printmaking, where every mark is a calculated decision within a larger, cohesive project.