A flamingo and a duck c. 1919

Max Beckmann created this sketch of a flamingo and a duck with pencil on paper. In the avian world, the flamingo, with its striking pink plumage and ungainly stature, often symbolizes flamboyance and exotic allure, a stark contrast to the humble duck, a symbol of domesticity and adaptability. This visual pairing of opposites, calls to mind the age-old motif of the animal kingdom. The image of the bird can be traced back to ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, representing souls or deities. The duck, in particular, has been found in various cultural contexts, from children’s fables to religious texts, often embodying themes of simplicity, resourcefulness, or even sacrifice. Here, the juxtaposition of these two birds is not merely a study in form but a poignant commentary on the human condition, mirroring our own internal conflicts and dualities. Much like the opposing forces within our own psyche, the flamingo and duck beckon us to contemplate our complex emotional landscapes.