Serbian Refugees, from the series Croquis du temps de Guerre

Best known for his commercial illustrations, posters, and graphic design, Steinlen also produced work that commented on political and social situations, exposing his socialist ideologies. Earlier in his career, Steinlen designed works like the iconic "Chat Noir" poster, which were accessible to mass audiences. In the last years of his life, during the war, his posters and graphic works attempted to evoke sympathy for social causes, portraying subjects like evicted Belgians and ruined cities and homes. This lithograph, from the 1919 portfolio "Sketches of Wartime," depicts a group of ragged Serbian children huddled together, calling attention to the need for humanitarian aid in Eastern Europe.