About this artwork

This is the final scene from the 'Hell' print portfolio. After previous prints showing chaos and destruction, we end on a more subdued, if sombre, note. Beckmann depicts himself with his mother-in-law and son Peter. Peter wears a soldier's helmet and waves toy grenades. However, his youthful joy contrasts with the solemn face and firm, calming gesture of his grandmother. Beckmann points upwards, either to draw attention to the hellish reality outside, or in a reproach to God. The window frame in the background forms the shape of a cross behind his head.

Updated before 2020

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Max Beckmann

Max Beckmann