Self Portrait. Selbstbildnis by Käthe Kollwitz, 1867-1945

Käthe Kollwitz, 1867-1945
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Self Portrait. Selbstbildnis

Original lithograph in black ink. 1934. Signed in pencil. Numbered in pencil (78) from the edition of 80 impressions. Printed at the studio of Von der Becke, 1934. Stone erased after the edition.
Ref: Klipstein - Kollwitz Graphisches Werk no 252.

A superb rich and contrasty impression. On pale cream wove paper. Excellent condition. Wide margins. Image: 8 1/4 x 7 3/8ins (208x188mm).

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This study is the finest, most compelling and powerful Self Portrait from Kollwitz? later period. The strength of the actual drawing, together with the effective cut-off treatment of the form, give it a power of communication which is absolutely unforgettable.

Kathe Kollwitz used the symbol the self-portrait to extraordinary effect throughout her life as a means of expressing the social and moral convictions of her art. She believed passionately in the need to improve the political and physical situation of the poor working people with whom she was in constant contact through her husband?s medical practice in the poor areas of Berlin. Using her own features as channel through which to symbolise their suffering she created some of the most powerful and moving images of German art in the early years of this century.

Impressions of this lithograph have always been very highly prized and they appear only rarely on the market.