The war of haves and have nots Camille Pissarro (1830-1903)

Here we observe a stark depiction of societal disparity, rendered in a monochrome style that amplifies its critical edge. The central figure dominates the composition; he is portrayed as corpulent and self-satisfied, standing atop a circular platform seemingly constructed from discarded objects – barrels, crates, and other refuse. His posture exudes an air of entitlement, hands placed confidently on his hips, while a thick chain bearing the word Capital encircles his neck, suggesting both wealth and imprisonment within its constraints. The artist has emphasized his physical form with exaggerated features: a bulbous nose, receding hairline, and a general impression of decadence.
Below him, a throng of emaciated figures struggles in a chaotic mass. Their faces are gaunt, their bodies contorted in postures of desperation and exhaustion. They appear to be reaching upwards, yet the distance between them and the central figure is vast, highlighting an insurmountable divide. The background features architectural elements – what appears to be the silhouette of a tower and a bridge – suggesting a modern urban setting, further contextualizing the scene within a framework of industrial progress and societal development.
The subtexts embedded in this work are layered and pointed. The depiction of the central figure as both opulent and chained implies that wealth is not synonymous with freedom or contentment; rather, it binds its possessor to a system of exploitation. The contrast between his abundance and the suffering of those below underscores the inherent inequalities within the social order. The platform upon which he stands, built from discarded materials, suggests that his prosperity is directly dependent on the waste and hardship generated by others.
The artist’s choice of monochrome intensifies the sense of bleakness and moral condemnation. It strips away any potential for aesthetic softening, forcing a direct confrontation with the harsh realities of class struggle. The overall effect is one of profound social critique, exposing the corrosive impact of unchecked capitalism on human dignity and well-being.