Burning House

Maria Uhden

Woodcut on Japanese tissue paper

National Gallery of Art

This striking German Expressionist woodcut depicts a house engulfed in flames, rendered with bold, simplified forms and powerful emotional intensity characteristic of the movement. Created by Maria Uhden (1892-1918), a pioneering female artist associated with Berlin's influential Der Sturm gallery circle, the print exemplifies her signature style of emotional depth and symbolic imagery inspired by folk art and historical woodcuts. Tragically created in the final year of her short life, this work stands as a testament to her remarkable artistic vision that left a lasting impact on the avant-garde despite her passing at just 26 years old.