“Three Bathers on the Beach,” created circa 1909 by the artist Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, is a lithographic work on paper that resides within the Expressionism movement. Held at the Brooklyn Museum in New York City, NY, US, this artwork exemplifies the genre of nude painting (nu) and measures 50.8 by 58.4 cm.
The artwork depicts three figures, seemingly unclothed, positioned in a loosely arranged triangular composition on a stylized beach setting. The central figure stands with a contemplative posture, while the two other figures sit; one turned away from the viewer and the other oriented toward the beach. The scene is rendered in a simplified, almost primitive manner, characteristic of Kirchner’s expressive style. The palette utilizes bold, contrasting colors with prominent use of earthy tones and primaries, which enhances the emotional intensity and dynamism of the composition. The figures are outlined with a strong, deliberate line, underscoring the expressive quality of human form, while the background is suggested through abstract, rhythmic strokes echoing the natural elements of sea and sand.
