Ice on the River 1923

Max Beckmann's "Ice on the River" (1923) is a striking depiction of the cityscape of Frankfurt am Main. The painting is a prime example of Expressionism, characterized by the artist's bold and simplified forms, sharp colors, and the emotional intensity of the scene. Beckmann's use of angular forms, particularly in the architecture, suggests a sense of tension and alienation, reflecting the anxieties of the post-World War I era. The frozen river, illuminated by a crescent moon, further contributes to the painting's unsettling atmosphere, conveying a sense of isolation and stillness. "Ice on the River" is held by the Städel Museum in Frankfurt, offering a window into the artistic landscape of Germany during a period of significant social and political upheaval.