Lot 1 D

In the object-like panels he began creating in 1930, Hermann Glöckner pursued a novel and extremely individual path. Using unusual experiments with materials and intuitive compositions, he achieved independent processes of abstraction and, in doing so, he made a significant contribution to constructive-concrete art.
This magnificent early panel represents the first version of “Sechszackiger Stern”: the second version, which was created the same year, is to be found in the collection of the Kupferstich-Kabinett Dresden. The star motif goes back to a form that Glöckner had already developed in 1930, in one of his first panels, as a ray refracted at six points (see Dittrich/Mayer/Schmidt 3). This remained one of Glöckner’s most important motifs and also dominated the panel pieces created in the years that followed.
The fascinating effect of the work offered for sale here is particularly the result of the radiance and optical depth of the gold foil used to create it. Stamped, scored and coated with enamel, the material has been subjected to a refinement reminiscent of a precious ancient metal object. With their object-like character, Glöckner’s panels are fundamentally conceived as unframed and they also incorporate a treatment of the reverse side – in the present case, by attaching a sheet of violet paper. Technically and artistically they form an integrated aesthetic entity and, as such, they have an origin in medieval icon painting – a point of reference which becomes particularly apparent in the gold ground of this panel.