Owls
Series TitleNeue europäische Graphik (Portfolio I)
Artist
Gerhard Marcks
(German, 1889 - 1981)
Date1921
MediumWoodcut
DimensionsImage: 11 × 9 3/8 inches (27.94 × 23.81 cm)
Credit LineGift of Jane Wade in memory of Curt Valentin
Object number55-73/5
On View
Not on viewCollections
Gallery LabelWrapped in a hooded, checked cloak and seated in a contemplative pose, a night owl with furrowed brow broods. A dark window, shingled gables, sturdy beams and a lone, glowing candle complete the crowded scene. Surrounding the sleepless, lone thinker on his rooftop perch are nine birds, identified by the artist as owls. Their attention is focused on this kindred spirit, this fellow creature of the night—perhaps the artist— who shares their association with wisdom, prophecy and the unknown.
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