Adolf Hitler Revealed. An Insane Ape On Top Of The World. John Heartfield Brochure Cover, 1943

Still It Moves

By John J Heartfield

Adolf Hitler revealed as an insane ape still holding on to dreams of world conquest. John Heartfield’s famous political art contains an incredible number of details. Heartfield added special touches to Hitler’s silly helmet. The placement of the sword signifies ultimate defeat although the danger still clearly remains.

John Heartfield had an extraordinary memory for words and images. Much of Heartfield’s anti-fascist collages referenced historical events or reflected earlier works of other artists.

It’s widely accepted that this piece is a reference to a remark by the scientist, Galileo, who was persecuted for his theory that the earth revolved around the sun. When he was released from the Inquisition, Galileo stomped on the ground and said, “And yet it moves!”

Examine the movement lines around the globe. Despite Hitler’s insane vision of world domination, Heartfield clearly shows the world is still turning.