Untitled 1943

This untitled artwork by Kukryniksy, from around the mid 20th century, uses ink and colour to deliver a satirical narrative. The lines are confident and quick, delineating caricatures with what feels like effortless precision. There’s a playful yet biting quality to the artist's process, laying bare the absurdity of the characters depicted. I'm drawn to the basket overflowing with hands, reaching upwards, a macabre still life rendered with a casualness that amplifies its unsettling effect. Each hand is slightly different, some more detailed than others, a testament to the artist's focus on capturing expression over uniformity. It’s as if the hands are collectively gesturing towards the folly and hubris displayed across the tableau. The piece reminds me of George Grosz's work, particularly in its unflinching critique of power and authority. But while Grosz often delves into the grotesque, Kukryniksy maintains a level of dark humour. This piece is more than just a historical document; it’s a commentary on the enduring human capacity for delusion.