In 1965 and 1966 he executed under the generic title Helden (heroes) an extensive series of paintings, drawings and engravings on the theme of the returning soldier. The characters are unpleasant with their small head on an oversized body. They are covered with wounds and have tattered clothes and bare feet. By a refinement in the mockery the attitude of these defeated soldiers remains defiant in the graphic style of the Soviet realism.
On March 8 in London, Sotheby's sells Mit Roter Fahne, oil on canvas 162 x 131 cm painted in 1965, lot 6 estimated £ 6,5M.
The character grabs the handle of an enormous red flag. This symbol of the Cold War is not raised but sweeps the ground. The torn cloth of the character is opened from the neck to the sex that does not even need to be visible to reinforce the indecency.
Please watch the video shared by Sotheby's.
SOLD for £ 7.5M including premium