“The Mothers,” created by Kathe Kollwitz in 1922, is a notable example of Expressionism and belongs to the genre of genre painting. It forms part of the distinguished “War” series. The artwork depicts a powerful and somber scene, resonating with the emotional depth characteristic of Expressionist art.
The artwork portrays a cluster of women and children, huddled closely together in a protective embrace. The scene is charged with a sense of vulnerability and mutual support, conveyed through the intense and somewhat severe expressions etched on the faces of the subjects. The use of stark contrasts between light and shadow, as well as the bold linear forms, enhances the dramatic and poignant atmosphere of the piece. The figures’ intertwined limbs and overlapping forms suggest a collective sense of mourning and resilience, foregrounding the emotional and physical toll of war on those left behind. Through this evocative composition, Kollwitz masterfully captures the harrowing experiences of motherhood and loss in the face of conflict.
