The Train for Berne c. 1914 - 1919

"The Train for Berne" is a charcoal drawing by Jean-Louis Forain, a prominent French artist known for his satirical and often cynical depictions of social life. Created around the time of World War I, this piece captures the chaotic and tense atmosphere of a train station, suggesting the uncertainty and displacement felt by people during the war. The drawing's loose, gestural lines and dark tones amplify the sense of unease, emphasizing the anonymous figures and their uncertain fates. The title hints at a journey towards an unknown destination, further deepening the sense of foreboding.