Joseph Beuys

Jungfrau (Holz) Wooden Virgin

About this artwork

This drawing relates to a sculpture of 1961 called 'Virgin'. Made of teak wood carved in simple geometric shapes, the sculpture is three metres long and lies on the ground with legs splayed, as shown in this work. Beuys's depictions of women often connected them to the natural world and seasonal cycles. The use of dark brown oil paint for the drawing suggests a connection with the earth, and the figure blends easily into its earthy surroundings. The circular stamp to the left of the drawing is likely a later addition.

Updated before 2020

see media
  • artist:
    Joseph Beuys (1921 - 1986) German
  • title:
    Jungfrau (Holz) Wooden Virgin
  • date created:
    1958
  • materials:
    Oil paint on paper
  • measurements:
    18.00 x 23.70 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    ARTIST ROOMS National Galleries of Scotland and Tate. Acquired jointly through The d'Offay Donation with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Art Fund, 2008
  • accession number:
    AR00639
  • gallery:
  • artwork photographed by:
    Antonia Reeve
This artwork is part of Artist Rooms
Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Tell us what you think.

Joseph Beuys

Joseph Beuys