“The Railway Overpass” by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, completed in 1914, is an expressive cityscape rendered in pen and ink. The artwork measures 43 x 34.5 cm and is a notable representation of the Expressionism movement.
The artwork depicts a complex, dynamic scene of an urban railway infrastructure. Bold, energetic pen strokes dominate the composition, creating a sense of movement and industrial hustle. The overpass itself, alongside adjacent buildings and elements of the surrounding city environment, is illustrated with abstracted forms and intricate line work. The use of varying line thickness adds depth and a textured quality to the scene, capturing the bustling essence of early 20th-century city life. Kirchner’s distinctive style emphasizes the emotional and structural aspects of the urban landscape, immersing the viewer in the vibrant, pulsating life of the city.