The artwork “Germany’s children starve!”, created by Käthe Kollwitz in 1924, is an evocative piece rendered in charcoal on paper. As an exemplar of the Expressionist art movement, this genre painting measures 35.3 x 50 cm.
The artwork portrays three children, each with a gaunt and despairing expression, their eyes filled with a haunting intensity. They hold out empty bowls, emphasizing their hunger and desperation. The use of stark black charcoal contrasts sharply with the white of the paper, heightening the emotional impact. Kollwitz’s work captures the severe post-war conditions in Germany, reflecting the widespread suffering and the innocence of the most vulnerable. The rough, expressive lines convey a sense of urgency and helplessness, making it a powerful testament to the artist’s commitment to social and political themes.
