At the Peak Hour 1955 - 1957

"At the Peak Hour" (1955-1957) is a black and white woodcut print by Ivan Stepanovich Gomenkov, a Soviet artist who specialized in this medium. This print showcases Gomenkov's mastery of the woodcut technique, with its bold lines, stark contrasts, and expressive use of texture. The image depicts a crowded train, likely a scene from everyday life in the Soviet Union, with people tightly packed together, their faces conveying a mix of weariness and determination. The use of black and white enhances the sense of claustrophobia and emphasizes the stark realities of daily commutes during a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization in the Soviet Union. This print serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of everyday life and the human experience in the face of societal change.