In Man, vrouw en kind (Ellende), the viewer sees a somber scene featuring a man, a woman, and a child. The colors are muted, with a palette dominated by dark tones, suggesting a sense of melancholy. The figures are positioned closely together, conveying a sense of intimacy and shared experience.

The background is indistinct, drawing focus to the emotional expressions of the subjects. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a common medium for the period. The brushwork is detailed, allowing for the subtle textures of the clothing and skin to emerge. The dimensions are approximately 80 x 100 cm, making it a sizable work that commands attention.

The composition is carefully arranged, with the figures forming a triangular shape that guides the viewer's eye. Richard Nicolaüs Roland Holst was a Dutch painter associated with the Symbolism movement. This work, created around the early 1900s, reflects the artist's interest in exploring themes of family and emotional depth. An interesting fact about this painting is its title, which translates to 'Man, Woman, and Child (Misery)', hinting at the underlying themes of struggle and hardship within familial relationships.