Poor man 1900

Theodor Severin Kittelsen, a Norwegian artist, created the poignant image, “Poor Man,” using primarily black and white media, though the precise date remains unknown. Kittelsen's work often delved into themes of nature, folklore, and the human condition, reflecting the cultural and social landscape of Norway in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this stark image, Kittelsen doesn't shy away from depicting the raw realities of poverty and death. The skeletal figure lying alone in the forest evokes a sense of abandonment and despair. The presence of crows overhead hints at the finality of death, while the surrounding forest adds to the feeling of isolation. Through this intersectional lens, we see how social status and economic hardship can strip individuals of their dignity, even in death. Kittelsen’s focus on the emotional and physical destitution of the poor invites us to contemplate our own roles within society. It challenges us to consider how we engage with issues of inequality and social justice.