Self-Portrait in Front of Stairs (Selbst vor Treppe) 1922

"Self-Portrait in Front of Stairs (Selbst vor Treppe)" (1922) by Walter Gramatté (1897-1929) is a watercolor painting depicting the artist in a somber mood, his face and clothing rendered in flat, bold colors. The composition is simple yet expressive, with the figure filling the foreground and a glimpse of a staircase and a window providing a sense of context. Gramatté’s use of simplified forms and bold color contrasts emphasizes the psychological impact of the artist’s self-reflection, hinting at his struggles and the fleeting nature of life. This piece is a powerful example of the artist's expressive style, often associated with German Expressionism.