In this almost triangular composition of Hitler, one’s eye firstly connects with Hitler’s full face. A visor covers his eyes. His depressed, well-blended, reddish-grey coloured face and his tight lips, lead the viewer’s eye to the quick, downward brush strokes of the heavy, dark coat. The light source comes from above Hitler’s head.
Some red and positive, orange colours in the blue outlined cap, are in stark contrast to the harshness of the dark subject. The positioning of Hitler’s cap that hides his eyes, and his high collar are good indicators that he is in a bad mood and contemplating something secret and sinister.
The artist used a controlled hand when applying long, black brushstrokes to the coat. Attention has been paid to detail on the cap.
The artist’s colour choice emphasizes a cold and threatening mood. Hitler symbolises the worst in man. What is the message to the viewer? Perhaps it is that abuse of power should never be tolerated. See other paintings in this series.
Acrylic on Masonite, date unknown. (Cleaned and framed.)
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