The artwork, titled “Study for The Foolish Old Man,” was created by Xu Beihong in the year 1940. This piece belongs to the Post-Impressionism movement and is categorized under the genre of sketch and study.
The artwork depicts a dynamic and expressive scene set against a natural landscape background. In this vivid sketch, figures are shown engaging in various types of labor, with some appearing to be involved in strenuous activities such as digging or lifting, their muscles prominently highlighted. The individuals vary in age, from young children to more mature adults, indicating the passage of time and the continuity of effort across generations. The artist’s use of vibrant colors and detailed brushwork emphasizes the physicality and determination of the people depicted. The sketch brims with vigor and movement, capturing the essence of communal work and perseverance.
