Gewonde soldaat 1832 - 1902

This is "Gewonde soldaat" or "Wounded Soldier", an etching by Karel Frederik Bombled. The artwork is rendered with a delicate touch. A wounded soldier reclines on the ground, his form etched with soft, flowing lines. The composition employs a shallow depth of field, which places the figures in the foreground, creating a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The subtle tonal gradations, achieved through varying densities of etched lines, create a ghostly appearance. This technique reflects the artist's engagement with the themes of mortality and suffering. The strategic placement of figures directs the eye across the composition. The horse acts as a stoic witness to the human drama unfolding below. The wounded soldier, the caring companion, and the horse behind them form a semiotic triangle, which evokes empathy and introspection. The formal restraint and nuanced execution invite contemplation on the transient nature of life and the quiet dignity in moments of adversity.