Käthe Kollwitz “Frauenkopf” Portrait Print, Etching/Drypoint/Aquatint, German Expressionist.
 
This compelling portrait print is identified as “Frauenkopf” by Käthe Kollwitz (1867–1945), one of the great figures of German printmaking. Comparable examples describe the work as based on a plate created around 1905, with later impressions issued by Johana and Bernard Von der Becke. A comparable example sold at Neal Auction in 2024 for $406.25.
 
Kollwitz is revered for artwork that combines technical mastery with emotional weight. Her prints and drawings are especially admired for their humanity, introspection, and expressive force, and she was the first woman elected to the Prussian Academy of Arts.
This example offers buyers a great deal to like:
strong connection to a major German Expressionist artist
contemplative, haunting portrait subject
visible plate mark and printmaking depth
classic monochrome presentation
excellent candidate for matting and framing
Condition is good vintage overall, with light toning, modest wear from age and handling, some small scattered marks, and prior mounting evidence on the reverse. The image itself remains strong and highly decorative.
After 5 decades in this industry, and with me now vintage too, I still get excited when something with real artistic gravity turns up. This is one of those pieces.
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