The Little Bronze Cannon (Book X: The Boys, facing p.428) 1949

Fritz Eichenberg made this illustration, The Little Bronze Cannon, using wood engraving; a process that always blows my mind. Look at the woman’s face, that map of lines and wrinkles, or the way he’s described the weight of her dress. You can really feel the cut of the tool as he coaxes out all these delicate details. And that tiny cannon in her hands, held so tenderly. The whole thing has this deep, rich blackness, with areas of pure white shining through, giving it real drama. It's interesting how he uses the stark contrast to draw your eye to certain areas. The way he contrasts areas of detailed mark making to areas of flat tone gives the piece a real visual punch. It reminds me a little of the work of Kathe Kollwitz in its intense humanity. Both artists are interested in depicting ordinary people with sensitivity and compassion. Ultimately, this piece reminds us that art isn't just about pretty pictures, it's about human connection, exploring the world and our place in it.