The artwork titled “Lee and his sister Hoetger,” crafted by Paula Modersohn-Becker between 1906 and 1907, is a portrait rendered in gouache on paper. This piece is associated with the Expressionism movement and measures 36.5 by 46.5 centimeters. As a formal representation, it captures the essence of two individuals, presumably siblings, through the lens of the artist’s expressively emotive style.
The artwork presents a seated man and woman, clad in attire befitting the early 20th century. The man is depicted with what appears to be a serving plate in front of him, containing two round objects that might be fruit or bread. He has a blocky, simplistic face, characterized by thick lines and minimalistic features that reflect the expressive quality typical of Modersohn-Becker’s work. His clothing is patterned, with a light-colored shirt that bears dark markings.
Beside him sits a woman, portrayed with more defined features compared to her male counterpart, yet still embodying the distinctive, stylized approach of Expressionism. Her attire is modest and somber, punctuated with small, rosy details that suggest a fastening or decoration down the front. Both figures exude a sense of quietude and introspection, as they sit against a nondescript, darkly hued background that focuses the viewer’s attention on their presence and relationship to each other.
The colors used in the artwork are muted, with earthen tones dominating the composition, and the application of paint is both textured and broad, aligning with the conventions of the Expressionist movement which sought to convey emotional resonance above realistic representation. The simplification of form, the concentration on emotional expression, and the powerful use of color are all hallmarks exhibited in this portrait by Modersohn-Becker.
