Limited etching "Love couple I." (1916) by Max Beckmann

Max Beckmann (1884-1950) is a solitaire in the context of the avant-garde of his time. While modernity drove painting towards complete abstraction, Beckmann deliberately anchored in the tradition of the late 19th century. A central motive in his work is the sea, which he once called his "old girlfriend". First, he presents it as a mysterious and vital space of existential experiences; During the National Socialism period, however, it turns into a symbol of freedom, departure and flight.