The artwork known as “Elisabeth Gerhard sewing,” created by August Macke in 1909, is a pastel piece classified under the Expressionist movement. This portrait, measuring 53 x 41.5 cm, captures a profound and intimate moment, illustrating the essence of the Expressionist emphasis on personal and emotional expression.
In the artwork, a woman is deeply engrossed in sewing, her head bowed and her gaze fixed intently on her hands. She is seated in a wooden chair, and her surroundings suggest a domestic setting. Draped over her shoulders is a gray shawl, adding a softness and warmth to the composition. The color palette is subdued, dominated by earthy tones of brown, gray, and muted red, which contribute to the tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. A sewing box and a table, covered with a white cloth, are also visible, underscoring the serenity and mundanity of everyday life. The artist’s use of pastel creates a textured and subtle finish, enhancing the introspective mood of the scene.
