Gentleman in a Top Hat (Dr Gustav Schiefler) 1911

Emil Nolde's 1911 woodcut "Gentleman in a Top Hat (Dr Gustav Schiefler)" is a powerful and expressive portrait. The artist, known for his bold use of color and form, captures the essence of his subject through gestural brushstrokes and dramatic contrasts. The figure's imposing silhouette is defined by a large black top hat, while the rest of the body is reduced to a series of simplified lines and shapes, creating a sense of anonymity and mystery. The striking composition and simplified forms are characteristic of Nolde's Expressionist style, which aimed to convey emotional intensity through raw and immediate visual language. This piece is a compelling example of Nolde's ability to capture the human condition with great sensitivity and power.