Straßenszene in der Großstadt (Street Scene in Large City) [p. 7] 

Max Beckmann rendered this sketch, ‘Street Scene in Large City,’ with graphite on paper. The immediacy of drawing allowed him to quickly capture a fleeting urban moment. Beckmann's choice of graphite, a readily available material, speaks to the working-class subject matter often found in his art. The rough texture and tonal range of graphite, from light grey to deep black, help create a sense of urgency and grit. The paper's surface also plays a role, its slight tooth grabbing the graphite and adding to the overall feeling of raw energy. The visible, gestural strokes reveal Beckmann’s process. The sketch captures the frenetic pace of city life, reflecting the social and political tensions of his time. By focusing on materials and processes, we can better understand how Beckmann used his art to comment on the world around him.