Ilya Ehrenburg. Most Sacred Possessions 1931

"Ilya Ehrenburg. Most Sacred Possessions" is a 1931 photomontage by John Heartfield. This artwork is a powerful commentary on the dehumanization and commodification of human life in the face of war and capitalist greed. The left side depicts individuals, some seemingly powerless and vulnerable, arranged on a chessboard, symbolizing the manipulation and exploitation of humanity. On the right side, a crucifix sits amongst stacks of coins, bullets, and matches, representing the commodification of faith and the intertwining of religious symbols with violence and materialism.