Корин Алексей 1865 1923 Бурлаки 1897 холст масло 84х174 см часть 1 - Russian and soviet artists Русские и советские художники

The canvas presents a scene of weary laborers resting by a riverbank at dusk. A group of men, clad in simple, dark clothing and caps, are gathered on a gravelly shore. Their postures convey exhaustion; some sit slumped, others lie prone, their bodies seemingly drained of energy. The artist has rendered them with a focus on the physicality of labor – calloused hands, weathered faces, and the general impression of physical hardship.
A central figure, lying on the ground, appears to be receiving medical attention from another man who gently examines his hand. This interaction introduces an element of compassion and care within the context of their arduous existence. To the right, a small fire burns, casting a warm glow upon two additional men huddled nearby; they appear to be preparing or consuming a meager meal.
The landscape itself contributes significantly to the overall mood. The river stretches into the distance, its surface reflecting the soft light of the fading sky. A distant town is visible on the opposite bank, hinting at the broader societal context from which these laborers originate and to which they presumably return. The expansive horizon emphasizes their isolation and vulnerability within this vast environment.
The color palette is dominated by muted earth tones – browns, grays, and greens – reinforcing the sense of bleakness and hardship. However, the subtle pinks and oranges in the sky offer a glimmer of hope or perhaps simply mark the passage of time. The artist’s brushwork is loose and expressive, contributing to the overall feeling of realism and immediacy.
Subtly embedded within this depiction are themes of social inequality, economic exploitation, and the human cost of labor. While the scene appears straightforward – a moment of respite for working men – it carries a deeper resonance about the lives of those who perform essential but often invisible work. The painting evokes empathy for these individuals and prompts reflection on their place in society.