Portrait of Mrs. Irene Triesch 

Max Liebermann sketched this portrait of Mrs. Irene Triesch in charcoal on paper, though the exact date remains unknown. Liebermann was a leading figure in the Berlin Secession, an important group of artists who broke away from the official art establishment in Germany in the late 19th century. The Berlin Secession sought to challenge the conservative artistic norms of the time. Looking at this portrait, we see a move away from idealized representation toward a more modern, expressive style. The loose lines and unfinished quality suggest a focus on capturing the essence of the sitter rather than creating a perfect likeness. The lack of idealization in the image suggests how Liebermann broke from convention. The art historian can piece together the cultural context and institutional forces shaping Liebermann's work through archival research. The Berlin Secession’s exhibition records, critical reviews, and Liebermann’s own writings shed light on the artist's motivations. By understanding these social conditions, we can understand the meaning of this portrait as contingent on its historical moment.