Father is fishing. Study (1913) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

The composition presents a solitary figure engaged in fishing, positioned near what appears to be a body of water. The man is rendered with a palpable sense of age and weariness; his face, partially obscured by the brim of a hat, displays deep lines etched by time and exposure. He leans forward intently, focused on the task at hand, holding a fishing rod that extends beyond the frames edge.
The artist employed an impasto technique, applying thick layers of paint to create a textured surface. This approach lends a tactile quality to the work, emphasizing the roughness of the man’s clothing and the weathered appearance of the wooden structure he sits upon. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted greens – which contribute to an overall feeling of quietude and melancholy.
Behind the figure, a hazy expanse of water stretches towards a distant shoreline punctuated by indistinct buildings. This background lacks sharp detail, serving primarily as a backdrop that accentuates the isolation of the central subject. The light appears diffused, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon hours, further reinforcing the atmosphere of stillness and contemplation.
Beyond the literal depiction of fishing, the painting seems to explore themes of solitude, perseverance, and the passage of time. The man’s posture suggests a life lived close to nature, marked by both hardship and resilience. Theres an implication that this activity is not merely about catching fish but represents a ritual, a connection to tradition, or perhaps even a form of meditation. The indistinct background hints at a broader world beyond the immediate scene, yet the man remains firmly rooted in his present moment, absorbed in his simple task.