“Townscape M5,” created by Gerhard Richter in 1968, is a cityscape artwork that belongs to the “Townscapes (1968-1970)” series, and is a notable example of the New European Painting movement.
The artwork presents an abstract yet evocative depiction of an urban landscape, employing a monochromatic palette of blacks, whites, and grays. It illustrates an aerial view of a town, with structures, rooftops, and streets rendered through expressive, broad brushstrokes. The high contrast and ambiguous forms reflect Richter’s adept skill in balancing realism with abstraction, creating a dynamic and contemplative cityscape. The piece exemplifies the blending of architectural precision with painterly diffusion, inviting the viewer to explore the interplay of light and shadow across the town’s features.
