The Arsonist c. 1935

"The Arsonist" (c. 1935) is a powerful lithograph by American artist Hugo Gellert (1892-1985), known for his social realist works. The image depicts two figures, one holding a lit match, clinging to a massive bomb that hovers above a cloud. The stark black and white tones create a dramatic contrast, emphasizing the urgency and potential danger of the scene. The artwork serves as a potent commentary on the destructive nature of war, highlighting the destructive power of humanity.