On Strike Hubert Von Herkomer (1849-1914)

The composition presents a group of figures emerging from a darkened doorway, set against a backdrop of rough brickwork. A man stands centrally, his posture suggesting weariness and resignation. He leans heavily on what appears to be the doorframe, his gaze directed downwards, avoiding direct engagement with the viewer. His clothing – a worn jacket over work trousers and a flat cap – indicates a working-class background.
Clinging to him are two women and an infant. One woman supports the child, who is dressed in vibrant red, a color that contrasts sharply with the muted tones of the men’s attire. The other woman stands slightly behind, her hands clasped together in what might be interpreted as anxiety or supplication. Her simple white apron emphasizes her domestic role while also hinting at economic hardship.
The lighting contributes significantly to the paintings mood. The figures are illuminated by a diffuse light source emanating from beyond the doorway, creating strong contrasts between areas of shadow and highlights. This technique draws attention to their faces and hands, emphasizing expressions of vulnerability and distress. The darkness surrounding them suggests an uncertain future or a difficult situation they are leaving behind.
The artist’s choice of subject matter implies a narrative of social struggle. The figures posture and attire suggest displacement and economic hardship. Their emergence from the doorway can be read as symbolic of their departure from employment, perhaps due to industrial action or dismissal. The presence of the child underscores the impact of these circumstances on future generations.
The overall effect is one of quiet dignity in the face of adversity. While there is a sense of despair, it is tempered by the figures’ closeness and apparent solidarity. The painting evokes empathy for those facing economic hardship and raises questions about social responsibility and the plight of working families.