Illustratie voor Xenophon’s ‘Anabasis’ (1920)

This striking black and white woodcut by Johannes Frederik Engelbert ten Klooster, created in 1920, is a dynamic visual interpretation of Xenophon's "Anabasis". In this compelling artwork, ten Klooster captures the arduous expedition of the Ten Thousand, a group of Greek mercenaries journeying through hostile territory in Persia.The composition of the woodcut is robust and vigorous. The artist uses contrast starkly, with the deep blacks and pristine whites carving out a scene bustling with energy and movement. In the forefront, the chaotic ensemble of soldiers and horses, shown in a tumultuous array, illustrates the urgency and disorder of their retreat. Above them, the sweeping lines that depict the rugged mountains add a dramatic backdrop, emphasizing the harsh environment they traversed.The angular style, almost cubist in approach, heightens the sense of conflict and struggle within the frame. This technique not only reflects the physical challenges of the journey but also mirrors the psychological tensions experienced by the mercenaries.Johannes Frederik Engelbert ten Klooster, through his exceptional craft in woodcut techniques, offers viewers not just a historical recount but a timeless expression of human endurance and resilience against formidable challenges.