Max Pechstein, Pine Tree in the Dunes, probably 1911 by Atelier Liesjes

A lively, colourful dune landscape in gouache/watercolour: in the centre, a whimsical, wind-swept pine tree (Kiefer) with a dark trunk and branches that fan out dramatically, with bright green needles and orange-yellow accents. The tree bends over a sand dune with the blue sea in the background, waves in blue and white, and a clear sky with clouds in blue and yellow. The composition is dynamic and asymmetrical, with the tree as the dominant element that embraces the viewer; signed ' "H. Pechstein" ' (or variant). The colours are intense and contrasting (green, blue, yellow, orange, brown). Meaning This work from around 1911 was created during Pechstein's early visits to the Baltic Sea dunes (e.g. Nidden or surroundings), where he intensively captured the raw nature and coastal motifs. The solitary pine tree symbolises resilience, loneliness and the power of nature against the elements – a typical Brücke motif of primitive vitality and harmony with the landscape. The bright colours and dynamic design radiate energy and vitality, celebrating the untamed dunes as a refuge for freedom and expression. Technique Gouache and/or watercolour on paper: transparent washes for sky and sea, combined with opaque gouache for bright accents on the tree and dunes. Powerful, flowing lines and loose brushstrokes give a fresh, expressive impression; typical of Pechstein's early coastal watercolours around 1911 – expressive and decorative, with strong colour contrasts and a focus on movement and light, inspired by direct observation and Fauvist influences.

Hermann Max Pechstein (Zwickau, 31 December 1881 – Berlin, 29 June 1955) was a painter from Germany. Pechstein is considered an important representative of Expressionism. In 1918, after the First World War, Pechstein co-founded the Arbeitsrat für Kunst (Workers' Council for Art) and in 1922 he became a member of the Prussian Academy of Arts.