junger Mann mit Hund (Younger Man with Dog) [p. 15] 

Max Beckmann made this sketch, "Younger Man with Dog," with pencil on paper. Beckmann lived through both World Wars, witnessing the rise of oppressive regimes that shaped his artistic vision. At first glance, the sketch appears to be a simple portrait. However, the way Beckmann portrays his subjects invites deeper contemplation. The man's gaze is averted, perhaps lost in thought, and his posture suggests a sense of introspection or unease. The dog, often seen as a symbol of loyalty, adds a layer of complexity to the scene. Is it a companion, a symbol of status, or something else entirely? Beckmann once said, "To reproduce the object, that is not my aim. I want to reproduce myself." In this context, "Younger Man with Dog" could be seen as a reflection of Beckmann's own identity. It is as though the artist is inviting us to consider what it means to be human in an era of conflict and uncertainty.