The Divine Beggar

Ernst Barlach

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a cloaked figure surrounded by swirling lines and forms. The monochrome composition uses strong, expressive lines to depict a robed figure standing on the right side, with the impression of a face in profile. This figure seems to be involved in a scene of swirling activity, as suggested by the dynamic lines and the movement depicted within the robe. The left side of the image contains intricate patterns and abstract shapes, suggesting narrative scenes or symbolic forms that are incorporating the figure on the right into a larger scene. The use of lines is suggestive of woodcut techniques, lending the image a bold and textural quality.