This classic volume offers a cross-section of the graphic and sculptural work of Käthe Kollwitz (Königsberg 1867-1945 Moritzburg). Fritz Schmalenbach's selection is introduced by his text, which also conveys the essential biographical facts of her life. The fundamental theme of Käthe Kollwitz's art is human suffering—depicting the pain of poverty is just one of its many forms. Art that represents hardship with the intention of stirring hearts is highly at risk of becoming sentimental and mawkish. In contrast, Kollwitz's art is entirely unsentimental. Although Käthe Kollwitz always politically sided with the poor and rejected all forms of violent conflict, she cannot be permanently co-opted by any political faction. Behind the undoubtedly socio-political aspects of her works, the fundamentally human concern is always visible. This book was awarded as one of the "most beautiful books" in 1965, the year of its publication. Since then, it has lost none of its fascination and has remained prominent in several editions alongside numerous other Kollwitz books to this day.