Worker - 2010 2010

Reza Rahimi Lasko created this pencil drawing, titled "Worker," in 2010. Dominating the composition is the figure of an elderly man in repose. The tea set nearby suggests a moment of quiet contemplation or rest from labor. Consider the symbol of the seated figure; in antiquity, it often signified authority, wisdom, or divinity. Yet, here, the worker’s slouched posture and downcast gaze evoke weariness and humility. This juxtaposition echoes in depictions of melancholia found in Northern Renaissance art where figures express a sense of introspection or world-weariness. The humble tea set, while seemingly mundane, also carries a profound weight. In many cultures, the ritual of sharing tea symbolizes hospitality, community, and connection. The way in which the worker sits suggests a quiet moment for reflection and recovery. Through these symbols, the artwork transcends a mere portrait, inviting us to contemplate broader themes of labor, rest, and the human condition. These images carry cultural memory and resonate deeply within us.