Horst Janssen - ‘Die Raüber’ Expressionist Lithograph, Signed (1968)

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Horst Janssen – Die Räuber (The Robbers) Lithograph (1968)

Description:

This original lithograph by Horst Janssen, Die Räuber (1968), is … Read more Horst Janssen – Die Räuber (The Robbers) Lithograph (1968)

Description:

This original lithograph by Horst Janssen, Die Räuber (1968), is a dynamic and expressive work that showcases the artist’s masterful draftsmanship and innovative printmaking techniques. The composition combines traditional lithography with selective areas of screen printing. Hand-signed in pencil by the artist in the lower right corner, this piece showcases Janssen’s provocative style and his ability to merge grotesque imagery with refined artistry.

The print remains in good condition, with minor wear consistent with its age, including soft handling marks along the edges. The detailed photographs provided offer a closer examination of its condition and artistic nuances.

Dimensions: 24 × 33.75 inches (61 × 85.7 cm)

About the Artist:

Horst Janssen (1929–1995) was a prolific German draftsman, printmaker, and illustrator, renowned for his intricate etchings, lithographs, and pen-and-ink drawings. A student of Alfred Mahlau at the Hamburg Academy of Fine Arts, Janssen developed a distinctive style characterized by expressive linework, dark humor, and psychological intensity. His works often explored themes of mortality, sexuality, and the grotesque, drawing inspiration from artists such as Francisco Goya and Edvard Munch.

Janssen received numerous accolades during his lifetime, including the prestigious Biennale di Venezia graphics prize in 1968—the same year this lithograph was created. His oeuvre spans thousands of drawings, prints, and illustrated books, cementing his legacy as one of Germany’s most important postwar artists.

Museums Holding Horst Janssen’s Work:

Janssen’s works are held in major international collections, including:

- The Horst Janssen Museum (Oldenburg, Germany) – Dedicated exclusively to his life and art.

- Kunsthalle Hamburg (Hamburg, Germany) – Houses an extensive collection of his prints and drawings.

- Albertina Museum (Vienna, Austria) – Features his graphic works alongside Old Masters.

- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) (New York, USA) – Includes select prints in its permanent collection.

- British Museum (London, UK) – Holds a number of his etchings and lithographs.

Die Räuber reflects Janssen’s fascination with theatrical and literary themes—likely inspired by Friedrich Schiller’s 1781 drama of the same name. This lithograph remains a compelling example of his ability to merge narrative depth with technical brilliance, making it a significant piece for collectors of modern graphic art. See less