Gabriele Münter (1877–1962) - Bogenschützen-Studie

Archer study (attributed to Gabriele Münter)

Graphite on paper with later ink drawing
Marked "Entwurf 1936" and bearing the name "Münter".

For sale is an expressive modernist study of an archer in motion, executed in graphite on aged paper. The composition consists of four consecutive figure studies and documents the creative development process – from the initial constructive sketches to the finished final version. The individual studies strikingly illustrate the artist’s engagement with movement, proportion, balance, and the geometric reduction of the human figure.

The angular formal language, the deliberately simplified representation of the body, and the dynamic composition of the archer recall the artistic language of German Expressionism and the European Modernism of the first half of the 20th century.

In the lower left area there is the pencil inscription "Entwurf 1936" as well as the name "Münter". In the lower part of the sheet there is also a bold interpretation of the figure executed in black ink with another signature "Münter". This creates an intriguing contrast between the original graphite study and a strongly stylized graphic rendering.

The work has been professionally mounted behind UV-protective museum glass and is housed in a modern frame, enabling immediate display.

Condition

The drawing is in generally good age-appropriate condition. The paper shows the natural patina typical of older works, minor signs of aging, and isolated foxing spots. These features emphasize the historical character of the work and are consistent with the age of the paper. The modern frame with UV-protection glass serves to preserve the drawing in the long term.

Provenance

The drawing was purchased through an antiques dealer.

According to the dealer, the work comes from the dissolution of a private estate following the death of the former owner. During this estate settlement, the drawing first entered the stock of the antique dealer and was subsequently acquired by the current owner.

The attribution to Gabriele Münter was made on the basis of information provided at the time of purchase. An independent art-historical authentication, however, is not currently available. The work is therefore offered as "Gabriele Münter attributed".

Remarks

This drawing represents an interesting collectible for connoisseurs of German Expressionism, classical Modernism, and significant works on paper. Of particular appeal is the documented development of the composition, which provides a rare glimpse into the creative process and attests to the character of an authentic studio or design study.