“The Fisherman,” an artwork by Edvard Munch created in 1902, is an oil on canvas that exemplifies the Expressionist movement. The dimensions of the artwork are 89 x 61 cm, and it is classified as a genre painting. The artwork is housed in the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway.
The artwork portrays a solitary figure standing front and center, against a muted, textured background. The figure is rendered with loose, expressive brushstrokes that embody the characteristics of Expressionism, emphasizing emotional resonance over physical accuracy. The fisherman is depicted wearing a bulky sweater and pants, a cap, and he seems to be holding a pipe in his mouth, which is a common attribute associated with the persona of a fisherman. His expression is obscured, his identity general rather than specific, which allows for a broader interpretation of the figure’s state of mind. Vivid touches of color, such as in his reddish gloves, add contrast to the otherwise earthy and subdued color palette. Overall, the artwork communicates a strong sense of mood and atmosphere, inviting viewers to contemplate the inner life of the fisherman as much as his external appearance.