Christian Schad (1894-1982) was a German painter associated primarily with the New Objectivity (Neue Sachlichkeit) movement, which emerged in Germany during the 1920s as a counter to Expressionism. The New Objectivity movement emphasized a return to a straightforward, unemotional, and realistic portrayal of subjects.
Born in Miesbach, Upper Bavaria, Schad studied at the art academy in Munich before relocating to Switzerland and later to Italy. It was during his time in Italy that he developed a unique method of creating images using photographic exposure, which he termed “Schadographs.”
While Schad’s earlier works leaned towards avant-garde techniques, his most recognizable pieces from the 1920s showcase the cold, clinical gaze of the New Objectivity. His portraits, in particular, were marked by their meticulous detailing and cool detachment. He captured the hedonistic culture of the Weimar Republic’s post-World War I era, emphasizing the decadence and moral ambiguity of the time.
Schad drew inspiration from his contemporaries like Otto Dix and George Grosz, who were also part of the New Objectivity movement. However, Schad’s approach was less overtly political and more focused on the individuals he portrayed, highlighting their vulnerabilities and ambiguities.
After the 1920s, Schad’s style evolved, and he shifted his focus to more traditional and religious themes. Despite these shifts, his impact on the New Objectivity movement and his unique contribution to 20th-century art, especially with the development of the “Schadographs”, cements his place as a pivotal figure in modern art history.
Useful Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Schad
https://www.wikiart.org/en/christian-schad
