Woodcut. Signed. One of 7 known copies. On Blotting paper (with embossing stamp "JOHANNOT et Cie. ANNONAY"). 25.4 x 25.2 cm. Sheet: 57,5 x 41,5 cm.
Made as introductory sheet for a planned but unrealized publication of Petrarca's "Triumphs". [MH].
• Nude couples play a particularly important role in Kirchner's entire oeuvre.
• Casual outdoor nudity was an important source of inspiration for the Brücke artists and is characteristic of their expressionist work.
• Very rare: one of only seven known copies.
LITERATURE: Günther Gercken, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. Kritisches Werkverzeichnis der Druckgraphik, vol. 3. (1912-1916), Bern 2015, cat. rais. no. 592 (illustrated of a different copy). - - Karl & Faber, Munich, 159th auction, June 29/30, 1982, lot 1414 (illu.). Hauswedell & Nolte, Hamburg, 259th auction, June 6 - 8, 1985, lot 811 (illu.).