'Abstract Polyptych, 1984', Neo-Expressionist German School, Extra Large, Oversized, 79" X 79"

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A substantial, modernist abstract acrylic polyptych comprising four separate works on canvas that arrange into a unified composition. Unsigned. Dated, … Read more A substantial, modernist abstract acrylic polyptych comprising four separate works on canvas that arrange into a unified composition. Unsigned. Dated, verso, ‘1984' on upper left panel with satirical cartoon titled 'Tighten Your Dirndl'. Stretchers inscribed with numbers and text in German indicating the alignment and orientation of the panels (‘Unten Links’, ‘Oben Links’, ‘Oben Rechts’, ‘Unten Rechts’).

Individual Panel Size: 39.5 H x 39.5 W Inches
Overall Polyptych Size: 79 H x 79 W Inches

From a sea of frenetic and densely intertwined human forms emerges a balanced cascade of geometric planes in scarlet, cobalt blue, and electric lime. A tour de force of chroma and movement, this work sits at the intersection of Street Art and German Neo-Expressionism, with a nod to the Op Art movement. While in conversation with Keith Haring’s distinctive style, this work emphasizes the primacy of solid color shapes in figural representation instead of strict linear outlines. Haring's work was introduced to Europe first in Germany after the artist's 1982 inclusion in Documenta 7 (Kassel, West Germany) and his landmark 1984 exhibition at the Galerie Paul Maenz (Cologne), the same year this work was painted.

Though by an unknown hand, this artist exhibits clear familiarity with the avant-garde circles of the mid- to -late twentieth century and likely drew inspiration from Neue Wilde talents such as Jörg Immendorff and A.R. Penck. See less