C.O. Paeffgen – Scheich

This offset lithograph by German artist C.O. Paeffgen, titled Scheich (from Köpfe) from 1992, depicts the stylized profile of a sheikh rendered in Paeffgen’s signature bold contours and minimalist forms. The work reflects his playful yet incisive approach to portraiture, balancing abstraction and character. Created in an edition of 100, each print is monogrammed, numbered, and dated by the artist.

C.O. Paeffgen, a notable figure in the post-war art scene, is recognized for his distinctive contribution to the German Pop Art movement. Born Claus Otto Paeffgen in 1933 in Cologne, Germany, he initially studied law before dedicating himself to art in the 1960s. Paeffgen’s artwork is characterized by its playful and often whimsical approach, merging elements of pop culture with a unique iconographic style that has defined his long and prolific career. Paeffgen’s artworks frequently employ familiar symbols and objects, transforming them through unexpected compositions and vibrant colors. His signature motifs include moon faces, crossed-out names of celebrities, and everyday items such as spoons, cherries, and crowns, all rendered with a touch of irony and humor. One of C.O. Paeffgen’s notable bodies of work is his “outlines” series. In these artworks, he often used newspaper images as a starting point, tracing their contours with a pen and modifying the depicted subjects according to his own perspective. This series highlights his skill in transforming ordinary, everyday images into thought-provoking pieces of art. The “outlines” are a testament to his ability to blend humor and critique, often commenting on societal norms and popular culture. By abstracting and re-contextualizing these images, Paeffgen invites viewers to see the familiar in a new light, challenging their perceptions and encouraging a deeper engagement with the content. Throughout his career, C.O. Paeffgen has been an avid printmaker, exploring the possibilities of print and its role in mass communication—a central theme in Pop Art. His prints often feature the same engaging symbols found in his larger artworks, making his work accessible through limited edition prints. These editions allow a broader audience to own a piece of his creative vision, extending the reach of his artistic commentary. The process of printmaking has been integral to Paeffgen’s artistic methodology, allowing for the repetition and variation of his themes and motifs. Through his fine art prints and other artworks, Paeffgen has maintained a dialogue with the viewer, questioning the nature of art and perception in a media-saturated world. His work is held in numerous public and private collections, reflecting his enduring impact on the field of contemporary art. C.O. Paeffgen’s playful yet poignant portfolio continues to intrigue and delight audiences, securing his place as a significant artist within and beyond the Pop Art movement. His innovative approach to printmaking and his unique iconographic style ensure that his work remains relevant and influential in the contemporary art world.