The artwork titled “The March of the Weavers in Berlin,” created by Käthe Kollwitz in 1897, is an etching that stands as a prominent example of the Expressionism art movement. This piece of art can be classified within the genre painting category, as it portrays scenes of everyday life, in this case, imbued with social and political commentary.
In the artwork, Kollwitz captures the raw emotion and tumultuous spirit of a group of weavers as they march through Berlin. The etching technique enables a depth of texture that emphasizes the harsh realities of the subjects’ lives. The overarching composition is tight and filled with movement, as if the group is pressing forward out of the confines of the frame. Each figure is individualized, with expressions ranging from determination and solidarity to weariness and despair, indicating the varied responses to their shared plight.
It is notable how Kollwitz employs strong contrasts between light and dark to direct attention and evoke emotion, a characteristic approach of Expressionism where the inner feelings are rendered more important than the outer reality. The sweeping lines and the dark attire of the weavers further reflect the bleakness of their situation and the tension of the moment. The march itself suggests a collective action, a protest or demonstration, which is underscored by the forward thrust of the figures and the raised fist of the man at the center, symbolizing their defiance and unity in the face of adversity. This artwork not only offers a visual narrative but also serves as a poignant social commentary, typical of Kollwitz’s empathetic and socially-engaged body of work.
