Sympathy and consolation

The signs of unceasing physical labour are evident: hand, shoulder, and knee prop up a weary head. He has sat down to rest outdoors. Near the resting figure lie a whetstone, its container, and sharpening equipment.

The scythe, the mower’s most important tool, has been preserved only in part. His left foot originally rested upon the upward arching blade that has broken away. The roughly finished shaft of the stick can be seen between elbow and hip.

Melancholy and exhaustion recall the basis of human life: enduring recurring toil without bitterness or resentfulness.