Remained untouched for years, stored away in the attic.
In the heart of the picturesque Harz region, a remarkable discovery has been made that has sent ripples through the world of art and history: a trove of long-lost printing blocks created by the renowned Altenau artist, Karl Reinecke.
Hidden away in an attic on Rothenberger Street for decades, the printing blocks were recently unearthed, revealing a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. The find, which includes rare representations such as a North German net mender and a suspected portrait of Walter Spengler, has been hailed as a "real treasure" by experts in the field.
The motifs on the printing blocks are clearly recognizable, with themes that resonate with the time period. Greeting motifs from the late 1920s and early 1930s, symbolizing a turbulent time, are present, alongside intriguing imagery that reflects the decline of mining and ironworks in the Upper Harz during that era—lightning bolts serving as poignant reminders of the changes the region faced.
Dr. Kai Gurski, a Reinecke expert, has stated that the find is of great cultural value. The blocks, approximately 90 years old, are genuine rarities, offering a unique glimpse into the artistic practices and printmaking techniques of the past. Their craftsmanship reveals the technical skills and artistic sensibilities of the period, enriching our understanding of how printed materials were produced before the advent of digital methods.
The discovery has been a stroke of luck for art lovers, and it has sparked a suggestion for individuals to check their own attics for potential hidden art pieces. For those in the Harz region, the find has the potential to foster local pride and encourage cultural tourism. Exhibitions or reproduction of prints from these blocks might strengthen community ties to their heritage and stimulate interest in regional history.
The printing blocks have been handed over to the Heimatstube Altenau-Schulenberg for professional storage, ensuring their preservation for future generations to appreciate and learn from. The Goslarsche Zeitung has reported on the find, highlighting the rarity of original printing blocks from Reinecke's work, 80 years after the artist's death and the bombing of his apartment. Despite their age, the blocks are in very good condition, standing as testament to the enduring quality of Reinecke's work.
In conclusion, the Karl Reinecke printing blocks are an invaluable addition to the cultural and historical tapestry of the Harz region. They provide historical insights, preserve artistic traditions, and contribute to the cultural identity and economy of the region. For art enthusiasts, historians, and casual observers alike, the discovery offers a fascinating window into the past, offering a glimpse of the lives, struggles, and artistic expressions of the people of the Harz during a critical period in their history.
The treasure trove of printing blocks found in an attic on Rothenberger Street in the Harz region offers a glimpse into the home-and-garden lifestyle of the time, with themes that reflect the decline of mining and ironworks, as seen in the intriguing imagery of the Upper Harz during the late 1920s and early 1930s. As these blocks have cultural and historical significance, their care and preservation will enrich our understanding of the lifestyle and art of that period, contributing to the cultural identity and economy of the region.
