The artwork titled “Union,” created by Kazimir Malevich in 1930, is a key example of the Neoclassicism and Socialist Realism art movements. It falls within the genre of genre painting and is part of Malevich’s “2nd Peasant Cycle” series. The piece is currently housed in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a group of individuals gathered in an outdoor setting, seemingly on a field that stretches towards the horizon. Central to the composition is a bare-chested figure holding a red flag, adorned with a symbol typically associated with Soviet imagery, possibly signifying unity and collective ideology. The group appears to be a mix of peasants and workers, depicted in a realistic manner that aligns with the principles of Socialist Realism. The sky overhead is painted with rolling clouds, adding a sense of expanse and openness to the scene. The overall composition reflects a sense of solidarity and communal effort, which are key themes in the genre of Socialist Realism. The color palette is rich yet subdued, contributing to the gravity and earnestness of the depicted scenario.