The Yawners, plate 7 from the portfolio ‘Faces’
A hand-painted replica of Max Beckmann’s masterpiece The Yawners, plate 7 from the portfolio ‘Faces’, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Max Beckmann (1884–1950) was a German painter, printmaker, and writer, widely regarded as one of the most important artists of the 20th century. His work is often associated with the Expressionist movement, although Beckmann himself rejected this label. He is best known for his bold, emotionally charged paintings and prints that explore themes of human existence, societal upheaval, and personal introspection.
"The Yawners" is Plate 7 from Beckmann's portfolio titled "Faces" ("Gesichter"), a series of ten lithographs created in 1918. This portfolio is considered one of Beckmann's significant contributions to the medium of printmaking. The series was produced during a tumultuous period in Beckmann's life and career, as he grappled with the aftermath of World War I and his own experiences as a medical orderly during the conflict. These experiences profoundly influenced his artistic vision, leading him to explore themes of human vulnerability, alienation, and the complexities of modern life.
"The Yawners" depicts a group of figures in the act of yawning, a seemingly mundane and universal human gesture. Beckmann's rendering of this scene, however, imbues it with a sense of unease and introspection. The figures are presented in a close, almost claustrophobic composition, their exaggerated facial expressions and body language capturing a moment of shared yet isolated experience. The work reflects Beckmann's interest in the human condition, as well as his ability to transform ordinary moments into profound visual statements.
The lithograph is characterized by Beckmann's distinctive style, which combines bold, angular lines with a strong sense of contrast and texture. His use of black and white emphasizes the dramatic interplay of light and shadow, heightening the emotional intensity of the scene. This approach is typical of Beckmann's printmaking during this period, as he sought to distill complex emotions and ideas into stark, powerful imagery.
"Faces" was published in 1918 by J.B. Neumann, a prominent art dealer and publisher based in Berlin. The portfolio was well-received and helped establish Beckmann's reputation as a master printmaker. Today, "The Yawners" and the other works in the "Faces" series are held in major museum collections around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Art Institute of Chicago. These works continue to be celebrated for their technical mastery and their ability to capture the psychological depth of Beckmann's subjects.
In summary, "The Yawners" is a compelling example of Max Beckmann's printmaking, reflecting his unique artistic vision and his engagement with the social and emotional realities of his time. The work remains an important part of his legacy and a testament to his skill as an observer of the human experience.
