Kollwitz, Kathe Schmidt (1867-1945), German graphic artist and sculptor, born in Königsberg (now Kaliningrad, Russia), and educated in Berlin and Königsberg. In 1898 her illustrations for Die Weber (The Weavers), a play by the German playwright Gerhart Hauptmann, first presented the figures of a mother, a child, and death, dominant motifs in her work. A powerful graphic artist, Kollwitz produced etchings, woodcuts, and lithographs that are sensitive and compassionate portrayals of the working classes.

She also made sculptures in bronze, including a war memorial (1932) at Dixmuiden, Flanders. Her work, based on tragic subjects and drawn with great simplicity, was denounced by the Nazi regime in Germany (see National Socialism), and she lived in virtual seclusion from 1933 until her death.