Felled birch. 1864 18, 8h44, 5 Ivan Ivanovich Shishkin (1832-1898)

The composition presents a stark depiction of felled trees, specifically birches, dominating the visual field. Here we see two substantial tree trunks lying horizontally across what appears to be a ground surface rendered in muted earth tones. The immediate impression is one of loss and disruption; the natural order has been violently interrupted.
The artist’s attention focuses on the raw materiality of the wood. Close examination reveals the rough texture of the bark, the exposed grain of the cut surfaces, and the reddish hue of the freshly severed ends. These details are rendered with a palpable physicality, emphasizing the weight and density of the felled trees. The remaining foliage clinging to one trunk introduces a touch of life amidst the devastation, yet it only serves to highlight the absence of the living tree itself.
The color palette is restrained, primarily consisting of browns, ochres, grays, and muted greens. This limited range contributes to a somber mood, reinforcing the sense of loss and decay. The application of paint appears loose and expressive, with visible brushstrokes adding to the overall feeling of immediacy and emotional intensity.
Beyond the literal representation of felled trees, the work seems to carry subtexts concerning humanity’s impact on nature. The deliberate act of felling – the violence implied in the clean cuts across the trunks – suggests a disregard for natural processes. It could be interpreted as an allegory for exploitation or destruction, prompting reflection on the consequences of human intervention within the environment.
The horizontal orientation of the composition further contributes to this sense of finality and stillness. The trees are laid low, their upward trajectory abruptly halted. This positioning reinforces the feeling that something vital has been extinguished, leaving behind a scene of quiet devastation. The overall effect is one of melancholy contemplation on themes of loss, mortality, and the relationship between humankind and the natural world.