[Ernst L. Kirchner - psychoanalytic perspectives of the psychoeconomy of his creative achievements].

Looking back on Ernst L., Kirchner's life and work, the close interdependence of both becomes apparent. The artist and his art form a community of fate. In the light of psychoanalytical narcissistic research this interdependence presents itself as a symbiotic relationship of 'real' and 'ideal ego' (= art), the purpose of which it is to regulate the self-esteem of the narcissistically disturbed. Kirchner's example demonstrates well the creative and therapeutic forces set freeby this kind of regulation. It also shows, however, the instability of this state and the risk of the 'narcissistic catastrophe' to which an unfavourable course may lead.