“Two Wounded Men” is a portrait created by the artist Erich Heckel in 1915. This artwork belongs to the Expressionist movement.
The artwork is a woodcut print that powerfully conveys the emotional and psychological states of its subjects. It depicts two men who appear to be wounded, likely reflecting the social and personal impacts of World War I, which was ongoing at the time. The figure in the foreground is prominently featured, with an intricate play of light and shadow emphasized through sharp, angular lines and heavy contrast. His facial expression appears to be one of anguish or contemplation, heightened by the stylized and almost abstract rendering typical of Expressionist works. The second figure, positioned in the background, adds depth to the composition, creating a somber atmosphere that underscores the themes of pain and suffering. The use of black and white enhances the stark reality being portrayed, making this piece a poignant representation of its historical context.
