The Sorcerer's Apprentice 2: The Flood 1924

Curator: Ernst Barlach’s small lithograph, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice 2: The Flood," captures a moment of near panic. What strikes you first? Editor: The frenzied energy of the marks themselves! You can almost feel the coarse texture of the lithographic stone and the rapid, chaotic movements that brought this scene to life. Curator: Barlach often explored themes of spiritual struggle and social critique. Considering the political climate in Germany during the early 20th century, this print carries significant weight. Editor: Absolutely. Look at the raw quality of the drawing; it mirrors the societal anxieties, maybe even a commentary on unchecked power and its messy consequences. The material itself—the print, easily reproduced—makes that accessible to a wider audience. Curator: Indeed. It offers a potent reflection on the human condition. Editor: It’s a reminder that art can be both a mirror and a warning.