The artwork titled “Unemployed” by Ferdinand Hodler, created in 1891, is a poignant representation of the Realism movement. Executed using a combination of charcoal, pastel, pencil, and watercolor on paper, the artwork measures 61 by 47 centimeters and belongs to the genre of portraiture. Currently held in a private collection, this evocative piece captures a moment of profound human experience and emotion.
In “Unemployed,” Ferdinand Hodler masterfully portrays an elderly man seated on a simple wooden bench, his hands clasped together in a pose suggestive of deep contemplation or resignation. The man’s attire, a dark suit, contrasts with the vividly rendered grassy background, which is swathed in green and floral hues, indicative of a possible outdoor setting. His face, notably marked by age and experience, is depicted with meticulous detail, emphasizing lines and furrows that speak to life’s trials and tribulations. This remarkable combination of media adds depth and texture, enhancing the overall realism and emotive power of the artwork. The composition draws the viewer’s focus to the subject’s expression and posture, evoking an empathetic response to the theme of unemployment and the personal hardships it entails.
