Joseph Beuys

2 Sheep’s Heads

1961–75

On loan

Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum (Aberystwyth, UK): After Sheep?

Artist: Joseph Beuys 1921–1986
Original title: 2 Schafskopfe
Medium: 2 works on paper, oil paint and fat
Dimensions: Support: 755 x 774 mm
frame: 924 x 940 x 38 mm
Collection: ARTIST ROOMS Tate and National Galleries of Scotland
Acquisition: ARTIST ROOMS Acquired jointly with the National Galleries of Scotland through The d'Offay Donation with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Art Fund 2008
Reference: AR00647

Online caption

The title of this drawing translates as '2 Sheep's heads', which are represented by shapes torn in the dark-painted paper. It is a two-part work, with one part painted in oil paint and the other in oil paint and fat. Beuys often used fat as a substance in his 'actions' and sculptures, however he used it less frequently in his drawings due to the nature of the material. He viewed fat as an alchemical material, with multiple uses. Fat could be a source of nourishment and fuel, as well as representing warmth and the creative principle. Beuys made a multiple based on this work.