Die LetztenVorzeichnung zu „Die Letzten“, Blatt 9 aus der Folge „Die Hölle“ 1919

This is Max Beckmann's preparatory drawing, made for sheet 9 of his series "Hell". As Nazi power consolidated in Germany, Beckmann began this series of lithographs in 1919, as a reaction to the atrocities he witnessed as a medical volunteer during World War I, and the political turmoil of post-war Germany. “Hell” reflects the nightmarish reality of violence and moral decay that Beckmann saw around him, portraying scenes of torture, chaos, and societal collapse. Beckmann’s work gives us a glimpse into the lived experience of those who were persecuted, displaced, and silenced. He uses distorted figures and claustrophobic compositions to convey the psychological impact of political violence. The "Hell" series is not just a record of historical events, but a call for empathy and understanding. This drawing allows us to reflect on the cyclical nature of violence and its impact on individuals and communities, and serves as a reminder of the importance of resistance and resilience in the face of oppression.