Ernst Barlach
plastische Meister-Werke
📘 About This Book
In dem bestechenden Amsterdamer-Ausstellungsbegleitband "Ernst Barlach" (ID 19/95) gibt es einen Aufsatz von A. Beloubek-Hammer über Barlach und die Skulptur des Expressionismus, im neuen Band schreibt diese Autorin über Barlachs Weltsicht und Kunst, der Text verbindet sich mit dem nachfolgenden Bildteil und ist eine glänzende Einführung ins Thema. Über die Plastiken gibt es andere, z.T. umfangreichere Bildwerke, teilweise auch mit Farbbildern, doch in keinem gab es bisher so hervorragend ausgeleuchtete und fotografierte Abbildungen, auf denen die Plastiken "Leben gewinnen" und die Materialstrukturen genauestens zu erkennen sind. Beteiligt sind verschiedene Fotografen, doch das Werk wirkt wie aus einer Hand, Neben den Plastiken stehen Entwurfszeichnungen oder motivgleiche Bilder Barlachs, Zitate, Werkdaten. Auch wenn frühere Bände vorhanden sind, z.B. E. Barlach "Plastik" (BA 12/85) oder "Ernst Barlach" (BA 6/86; 7/93) - der neue Band ist 1. Wahl. (2) (Hans-Jürgen Zimmermann)
📖 Summary
The 1996 monograph dedicated to the renowned German artist Ernst Barlach serves as an exceptional companion volume that bridges critical art history with breathtaking visual documentation. Spanning 168 pages, this publication delves deep into the profound worldview and artistic philosophy of one of the twentieth century's most significant expressionist sculptors. Following an earlier exhibition catalogue from Amsterdam, this volume elevates the discourse through a compelling essay authored by A. Beloubek-Hammer. The text meticulously explores Barlach’s unique artistic vision, examining how his worldview intertwines with the fundamental traits of expressionist sculpture. This insightful essay acts as a brilliant introduction, seamlessly guiding the reader into the extensive visual section that forms the core of the publication. What truly sets this volume apart from other monographs on Barlach is the extraordinary quality of its photographic plates. While other works may offer a greater quantity of images or include color reproductions, none achieve the level of masterful lighting and photographic precision found here. Through the collaborative efforts of multiple photographers whose work harmonizes into a unified aesthetic, Barlach's sculptures truly seem to come alive. The lighting dramatically emphasizes the intricate material structures of the works, allowing enthusiasts and scholars alike to appreciate the tactile subtleties of his craftsmanship. Furthermore, the volume thoughtfully pairs the finished sculptures with preparatory drawings and related pictorial works by Barlach. This contextual placement provides a window into the artist's creative process, tracing the evolution of his motifs from two-dimensional sketches to three-dimensional masterpieces. Ultimately, the 1996 Ernst Barlach volume transcends the traditional exhibition catalogue, functioning as both an intellectual exploration of expressionist art and a visual masterpiece that honors the enduring legacy of a master sculptor.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Outstanding, highly detailed photography that makes the sculptures come alive
Brilliant introductory essay by A. Beloubek-Hammer on Barlach's worldview and art
Thoughtful inclusion of preparatory drawings alongside finished sculptures
Unified aesthetic presentation despite contributions from multiple photographers
⚠️ Cons
Lacks color reproductions found in some other sculptural volumes
May offer fewer total images compared to larger, more encyclopedic works
❓ FAQ
Who wrote the introductory essay in the book? +
The essay on Barlach's worldview and art was written by A. Beloubek-Hammer.
How many pages does the book contain? +
The book contains 168 pages.
What makes the photography in this volume unique? +
The sculptures are exceptionally well-lit and photographed so that they seem to come alive, allowing material structures to be seen in precise detail.
Does the book feature anything other than finished sculptures? +
Yes, it also includes preparatory drawings and motivically similar pictures by Ernst Barlach.
When was this book published? +
It was published in 1996.
