Portrait of a German Officer 1914

Marsden Hartley's "Portrait of a German Officer" is an abstract and symbolic depiction of German militarism during World War I. The painting features a variety of geometric shapes, including a prominent triangle with a black cross in a green circle, which represents the Iron Cross, a prestigious military decoration in Germany. The overall composition is a dynamic interplay of colors and patterns, with the artist using geometric shapes and bold lines to evoke a sense of power and authority. The work is a stark contrast to the typical portrait of an officer, focusing on the symbolism of military insignia, rather than a realistic portrayal of the individual. This painting offers a fascinating glimpse into Hartley's artistic response to the war, a time of significant upheaval and social change.