Scorners of Death

Otto Dix is best known for his bitter critiques of modern life—its moral failures, dehumanizing forces and propensity for violence. In this roughly drawn drypoint print, he depicts two circus performers in three-quarter view. Their chiseled faces, hardened eyes, expressionless mouths and sculpted physiques attest to their skill and determination as performers of death-defying feats. Together, but ultimately alone, they risk their lives daily for the thrills of an unknown audience. A skull looms in the darkness between them.