Lovis Corinth - 'Zwei Bauern nach Wilhelm Leibl' (1920) Lithograph

This item is an original lithograph created by the renowned German artist Lovis Corinth in 1920, titled 'Zwei Bauern nach Wilhelm Leibl' (Two Peasants after Wilhelm Leibl). The artwork is executed in black ink on paper, displaying the characteristic expressive and gestural style of Corinth's later period. The piece measures approximately 32 x 24 cm, or similar dimensions consistent with the limited edition portfolio published by Fritz Gurlitt. The image depicts a figure in a hat with rough, hatching strokes that emulate the dark, moody realism of Leibl while infusing the piece with Corinth’s Impressionist and burgeoning Expressionist energy. Notable physical features include a 'plate-signed' signature and the inclusion of the name 'Leibl' in the lower margin. The construction of the print demonstrates master-level lithography with rich tonal contrasts. Regarding condition, the paper appears to have minor undulations and slight yellowing consistent with age (patina), though no major tears or foxing are visible in this specific detail shot. As a limited edition of only 15 copies (according to catalog Schwarz No. 422), this is an extremely rare specimen. Its provenance as a Gurlitt publication highlights its prestige, as Gurlitt was a key dealer for the German avant-garde. The craftsmanship is evident in the confident, quick linework that captures both portraiture and atmosphere simultaneously.

I have carefully examined the provided details for the 1920 lithograph 'Zwei Bauern nach Wilhelm Leibl' by Lovis Corinth. This specific work is documented in the Schwarz catalogue raisonné (No. 422). The piece illustrates Corinth’s late-career mastery, characterized by vigorous, gestural linework that bridges German Impressionism and Expressionism. The print appears to be on aged wove paper with a visible patina and minor undulations consistent with its 100-plus year history. The value is significantly driven by extreme rarity; with a limited edition of only 15 copies published by Fritz Gurlitt, this is among Corinth's scarcest graphic works. While Corinth was prolific in lithography, small-batch portfolios from prestigious publishers like Gurlitt command a premium in the current market. Recent auction results for Corinth's limited graphic works show sustained demand among European and international Collectors of Modernist prints. Factors impacting value include the 'plate-signed' nature and visible yellowing. While the scarcity bolsters the price, condition issues like the noted undulations might necessitate professional conservation. Authenticity appears consistent with known examples of the Schwarz 422 series, particularly given the specific provenance of the Gurlitt press. Limitation Statement: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence and descriptions. A definitive authentication requires a physical examination to verify paper watermarks, ink absorption, and precise measurements. For full validation, I recommend a paper fibers analysis and a side-by-side comparison with the copy held in a museum collection (such as those in the Kunsthalle Mannheim or MoMA) to ensure this is an original 1920 strike and not a later facsimile.