The Poleman in the Ma'sh c. 1881

"The Poleman in the Ma'sh" is a charcoal drawing by American realist painter Thomas Eakins, created around 1881. The work depicts a man, likely a worker in a marshland, standing on a platform with a pole. This drawing is a study, as the title suggests, for a larger work. Eakins is known for his depictions of everyday life, particularly in Philadelphia, where he lived and worked. He focused on realistic portrayals of people from all walks of life, including laborers and athletes. The work's simplicity, realism and subtle depiction of light and shadow demonstrate Eakins' mastery of drawing.