Whetting the Scythe

"Whetting the Scythe" by Käthe Kollwitz is a powerful print that exemplifies her focus on the struggles of the working class. Created through etching, the artwork captures a moment of quiet preparation, symbolizing labor, death, and the cycle of life. Kollwitz’s work often employs symbolic painting elements, and her realistic style reflects her roots in Paper-based techniques. Although her early works are rooted in realism, her association with Expressionism becomes evident, emphasizing emotional depth and social critique.