Weibliche Bildnisstudie (Female Portrait Study) [p. 3] 

Max Beckmann created this sketch titled, *Female Portrait Study*, using graphite on paper. The initial impression is of a somber, introspective mood conveyed through the subject's downward gaze and the monochromatic palette. Beckmann's use of line is particularly striking. Notice how the delicate, almost tentative lines that define the woman's face contrast with the dense, heavily shaded areas representing her hair. This juxtaposition creates a sense of depth and volume, while also drawing attention to the psychological weight of the subject. The composition is simple, yet it encapsulates a sense of human vulnerability. This work resonates with existentialist themes prevalent in the early 20th century, reflecting a concern with the individual's struggle in a chaotic world. The formal elements of the sketch—the contrast in line, the use of light and shadow—serve not only aesthetic purposes, but also underscore deeper philosophical inquiries into the human condition. It stands as a testament to the power of art to explore and question the very nature of existence.