The scene highlights the difficult labors and prevailing strength of the common man. The somewhat muted colors in the foreground, around the work area, seem to indicate a slight distain for manual labor. The brighter colors in the background highlight the natural setting, displaying areverence for nature, while at the same time framing the subject. The subject, Lincoln, is standing tall, displaying confidence and power. An open book is seen in the foreground shows that the artist values education and knowledge. Lincoln wiping sweat from his brow, while looking towards the horizon may be indicative of his future aspirations, and his willingness to work in order to achieve his