Arnulf Rainer – Selbst in Waage, 1976 – Etching

View in a Room

Etching, handsigned and numbered - Papersize 68,5 x 50 cm - Printsize: 40 x 30,5

This Untitled etching by Arnulf Rainer, created in 1976, is a striking example of his exploration of gestural abstraction and psychological intensity. The work depicts a human figure almost entirely obscured by a dense, chaotic web of dark, erratic lines that surround and define the figure’s form. These expressive marks appear scratched or etched across the surface, conveying a sense of turmoil or inner conflict. The figure’s outline is barely discernible, suggesting a fusion between presence and absence, where identity is both constructed and obscured by the artist’s vigorous lines. Limited to an edition of 25, this etching exemplifies Rainer’s characteristic approach of layering expressive marks over photographic or sketched forms to explore themes of self, existence, and the human psyche.

Arnulf Rainer (Austria, 1929) is a pioneering artist known for his abstract informal art. He co-founded the Hundsgruppe in 1950 and developed his signature 'overpaintings,' where he layered paint over existing images, exploring themes of creation and destruction. Rainer's work often delves into the subconscious, reflecting his interest in dreams and the mystical.

Arnulf Rainer

Selbst in Waage, 1976

Name: Selbst in Waage, 1976
Brand: Arnulf Rainer
SKU: 8281
Price: 3700.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Form

Limited Edition Print

Limited Edition PrintA limited edition print is one of a number of prints made at the same time from one printmaking plate. A fixed number are made and signed by the artist, indicating the printing order, using the format 1/10, meaning first of ten prints.

Medium

Etching

EtchingEtching is a technique where a design is created on a metal surface by using a strong acid or mordant to eat away the unprotected parts of the metal, leaving the desired pattern in relief (intaglio). In modern art and manufacturing, different chemicals may be used depending on the material being etched.

Edition

Edition of 25

Authenticity Guaranteed
Insured Shipping
Online Since 2005

●Inventory 8281

●Signed

Limited Edition Print

Drypoint

Currently Not Available

Arnulf Rainer

lila Wald, 2001

Limited Edition Print

Limited Edition Print

Sold

Only an 'almost,' a 'nearly,' is possible.
- Arnulf Rainer

Renowned for his abstract appropriation art, Arnulf Rainer is a painter and founder of the Hundgruppe (dog group) alongside fellow artists Brauer and Mikl. Rainer has recevied acclaim for his technique of ‘overpainting’ which involves him taking a pre-existing work, and painting over it, usually with gestural strokes and a heavy impasto; Wine Crucifix is one of his most notable ‘overpaintings’ - originally painted in 1957 by the artist, he decided to rework it in 1978 noting that the ‘quality and truth of the picture only grew as it became darker and darker’. Rainer was heavily inspired by the depths of the human mind and explored his own subconscious through painting with the technique of Automatism, popular among Surrealist painters – he also experimented with painting with his feet and fingers as well as exploring the effect of hallucinogenic drugs on his creativity.

Popular, Art Movements - May 23, 2022

Viennese Actionism: An unique convergence of shock value and Transcendence

Explore the provocative legacy of Viennese Actionism, blending shock value and transcendence. Discover how its pioneers redefined art with raw, political performance.Read More

Artists - December 26, 2024

Uncharted Expressions: The Resonant Imagery of Arnulf Rainer

Explore Arnulf Rainer’s transformative art, blending abstraction with visceral portraiture. Discover layered works that challenge beauty and redefine identity.Read More

Popular, News, Collecting - December 18, 2025

20 Years of Composition Gallery - A Conversation with the Founder

Celebrating 20 years of digital art excellence: Discover how Composition Gallery built global trust in online collecting through curation and integrity.Read More

Austria

Contemporary art in Austria is a vibrant and dynamic field, with a rich history and a thriving present. The country is home to world-class museums like the Albertina and the Mumok in Vienna, which regularly host exhibitions of contemporary art. These institutions not only showcase the works of Austrian artists but also promote international artists, making Austria a significant player in the global contemporary art scene. Two of the most renowned contemporary artists from Austria are Hermann Nitsch and Valie Export, who have made significant contributions to performance and media art. The contemporary art scene in Austria is not just confined to museums; it is also very much alive in public spaces and alternative art venues. This diversity and dynamism make contemporary art in Austria a fascinating field to explore.

Explore »

Arnulf Rainer

Selbst in Waage, 1976

68.6 x 50 cm

Language & Currency

Arnulf Rainer