"Nous devons mourir, nous et tout ce qui est notre" 1922

Georges Rouault made "Nous devons mourir, nous et tout ce qui est notre" with ink and wash, using the process of applying dark washes to the paper to create a sombre and meditative atmosphere. Rouault's approach to texture is really striking. The ink is applied in layers, creating depth and shadow. See the face and hands, how they are the lightest area, but they also feel full of sadness. You can almost feel the weight of the ink on the paper, mirroring the heavy sentiment of the title. The physical act of layering ink becomes a metaphor for the layering of human experience. What stands out to me is how similar this is to some of Kathe Kollwitz's prints, especially in how they explore themes of human suffering and mortality. This piece feels like a poignant reminder of our shared mortality, and the fleeting nature of existence.