About this artwork

These two glass bottles containing soda water are housed in a wooden box with text printed in German on the lid. The translation of the instructions reads: ‘Sender begins with the information, when “II” is drunk and the cap is thrown as far away as possible.’ Beuys explained that although he did not expect many people would follow the instructions, ‘I believe the object is only right if it’s done: before that it hasn’t been in an Action.’ The label of one bottle has been substituted with felt, an important material for Beuys which is used in many of his works. Here, the warmth of the felt contrasts with the cold, snow-capped mountain scene printed on the label. Beuys made hundreds of multiple objects, often including everyday and found objects - this piece is from an edition of forty.

Updated before 2020

see media
  • artist:
    Joseph Beuys (1921 - 1986) German
  • title:
    Evervess II I
  • date created:
    1968
  • materials:
    Two soda-water bottles, one with felt; in a wooden box with text printed on lid.
  • measurements:
    27.00 x 16.50 x 9.50 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    Purchased with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Art Fund, 2002
  • accession number:
    GMA 4543
  • gallery:
  • subject:
  • artwork photographed by:
    Antonia Reeve
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Joseph Beuys

Joseph Beuys