Bombing victim

myminifactory

This mother cradling her child in her arms embodies the anguish of Europe's population during the Second World War. The title of this sculpture leaves no room for interpretation regarding its historical context. The simplicity of her attire and the straightforward shapes used to depict the human form all serve to facilitate an immediate identification with the subject by the viewer. Such a pose inevitably recalls the Christ-like figure of the Pieta, as Mary holds her lifeless son after his crucifixion – only here the emotional impact is intensified by the child's tender age. Mari Andriessen has created numerous sculptures for memorials commemorating the Second World War, and his entire body of work has been profoundly shaped by the war – much like many artists of the mid-20th century.