Sitzender Mann am Tisch (Seated Man at a Table)
Painting on canvas • Johannes Molzahn (German, 1892–1965)
Style & Movement
German Expressionism / Cubo-Futurism transitioning into Abstraction
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; Pointillist and Divisionist technique using short, blocky brushstrokes of pure color set against a pale ground.
Creation Period
1914
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 50 x 70 cm; Landscape format
Subject Description
A semi-abstract portrait of a seated figure, likely a man, positioned at the right of the composition. The figure is rendered with rhythmic, mosaic-like patches of color. The background depicts an interior space or café scene broken down into geometric bursts of red, yellow, and blue, suggesting movement and light vibration.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the canvas appears well-tensioned with vibrant color preservation and no obvious mechanical damage.
Estimated Market Value
$40,000 - $60,000
Auction Estimate
$30,000 - $50,000
Provenance History
Likely sourced from a private collection or German estate; signature and date 'J. Molzahn 1914' visible in the lower right corner.
Art Historical Significance
A significant early work by Molzahn, created just before his involvement with 'Der Sturm' gallery in Berlin. It illustrates the influence of Delaunay's Orphism and Italian Futurism on German modernism prior to World War I.
Notable Features
Hand-signed and dated '1914' by the artist; presented in a contemporary white-washed wooden frame that complements the high-key palette of the work.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dirt and faint craquelure consistent with age; possible slight yellowing of the varnish layer.
Conservation Recommendations
Surface cleaning by a professional conservator and placement in a climate-controlled environment with UV-protective lighting.