Max Beckmann

Lithograph, 1919, signed in pencil, titled and numbered 37/75, from the portfolio Die Hölle (Hell), on imitation Japan paper, with margins, in good condition apart from occasional fox marks, creasing in the margins, adhesive stains at the lower sheet corners, verso, the sheet edges with a few short tears, trimmed at bottom, framed

The print is in good condition. There are 7 short tears along the sheet edges, longest 1/4 inch. Small fox marks are visible in the margins and on the verso upon close inspection. There are remains of adhesive discoloration at the lower corners on the reverse measuring 3 by 4 inches. Creasing is most noticeable in the lower margin the longest is diagonal and measures 7 inches. The lower sheet edge is irregularly trimmed.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

 

Malepartus was the name a castle of Reineke Fuchs in Goethe's1793 story of the same name and of a nightclub in Frankfurt. Here we see jazz musicians playing from a balcony to a group of revelers, dressed in the fashions of the day, champagne and glasses strewn about the dance floor. It is interesting to note that all the figures in this scene have their eyes shut, yet another comment on Beckmann's belief that citizens are blind to the controversial and unseemly politics of the age - accepting them as incontrovertible truths and carrying on blindly with "regular" lives.