Objekte der Begierde

Painter and graphic artist Konrad Klapheck (1935–2023) is a key representative of New Objectivity. He became well-known for his technically precise yet exaggerated and surrealistic depictions of machines and apparatus, which he heightened to produce psychologically charged icons.

This volume is the first to focus on the objects that formed the basis of Klapheck’s visual world: from his first typewriter in 1955 to sewing machines, calculators, shoe trees, and bicycle bells. These are juxtaposed with Klapheck’s works, in which he depicts such mostly everyday objects with precision while at the same time exaggerating them metaphorically. In addition to showing paintings, drawings and prints, the book also offers the first insights into Klapheck’s extensive estate, including documents, sketches, and his meticulously arranged collections of thematically organised objects.

• Previously unknown material from Konrad Klapheck’s estate regarding his models and working methods
• Rare insight into the artist’s early work
• Exhibition: Deutsche Bundesbank, Hauptverwaltung in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Düsseldorf, April 13 to May 20, 2026