The artwork titled “Four Men Cutting Wood,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1882, during his time in The Hague, Netherlands, serves as a quintessential example of Realism within genre painting. Rendered in chalk and watercolor on paper, this piece resides in the Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo, Netherlands, showcasing van Gogh’s early exploration in capturing the everyday labor of men.
In this artwork, four men are vigorously engaged in cutting a large log in a wooded area, characteristic of van Gogh’s interest in the struggles of the working class. The figures are depicted in mid-action, emphasizing their collaborative effort and physical exertion. The background, defined by towering trees and diffuse light, reinforces the sense of an immersive, natural environment. The use of muted colors and detailed texture highlights the stark realism of the scene, underscoring the artist’s commitment to representing the authenticity of human labor.
