Mother and Child 1919 - 1920

Max Weber created this woodcut titled "Mother and Child". The stark contrast between the black ink and the paper immediately draws the eye, creating a powerful image of intimacy. Weber uses bold, simplified forms to convey the essence of maternal love. The composition is vertically oriented. The figures are enclosed within a strong, architectural shape reminiscent of a portal or a niche. This framework emphasizes the solidity and timelessness of the bond between mother and child. The faces are rendered with minimal detail, their eyes closed or downcast, suggesting a state of serene contemplation. The figures are closely intertwined. Weber challenges traditional notions of representation by reducing the figures to their essential forms. The rough texture of the woodcut adds a tactile quality to the work. This reinforces its raw emotional impact. Ultimately, this woodcut achieves its profound effect through formal means. Its striking visual language invites us to reflect on the universal themes of love, protection, and human connection.