Construction Slaves (1922)

The painting "Construction Slaves" by Alfred Ost, created in 1922, masterfully captures the raw energy and somber tones of a labor scene dominated by draft horses. The artwork features a potent depiction of three large horses, their bodies massive and heavily muscled, suggesting their immense strength and the physical toll of their labor. The horses are portrayed in shades of brown and grey, with their muscles and veins prominently highlighted, emphasizing their physical strain and toil.These horses are harnessed together, pulling or carrying heavy materials, as indicated by chains and straps attached to their bodies. The scene is set against a sparse, industrial backdrop with minimal details, consisting of block-like structures and scattered debris on the ground. The environment adds to the overall feeling of harsh labor conditions.The somber color palette—dominated by grays and dark tones—sets a mood of fatigue and repression, reflecting the title "Construction Slaves." This suggests a commentary on the exploitation of animal labor in human industries, depicting the horses as sentient beings subjected to relentless work.Alfred Ost's use of expressive, almost rough brushstrokes adds to the intensity of the scene, conveying motion and the emotional weight of the subject matter.