The Negro 1930

Adella Burner created this woodcut print titled, “The Negro,” in 1950. The figure's downward gaze, framed by the brim of his hat, speaks to a deep, introspective mood, a theme that echoes through centuries of portraiture. Consider the hat. It is not merely a piece of attire; it is a symbol. Think of the wide-brimmed hats worn by laborers in fields around the world, shielding them from the sun, marking them as workers of the earth. Yet, it also evokes the hats of wanderers and travelers, hinting at journeys taken and stories carried across landscapes. This archetype, the thoughtful figure in repose, transcends time. We see it in classical sculptures of philosophers and modern depictions of everyday people. This visual motif taps into our collective memory, stirring a sense of shared humanity, prompting us to reflect on our own journeys. It is a powerful symbol of the enduring human spirit.