The Scales

About this work

This black-and-white print shows three people in a dim, cluttered room. One stands near a window, another sits on the floor holding a pair of scales, and the third crouches beside them. Pots, jars, and a basket overflow with odd objects—some look like food, others like tools. The walls are rough, and the light comes from a small window high up. The scales in the center are the focus, but the room feels messy and lived-in. The artist used shading to make the scene feel real, with dark shadows and bright spots. Check out chiaroscuro to see how this lighting trick works.