Artwork
Electrocution, first state
Electrocution, first state is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1936.576
- Credit line
- Gift of Leonard C. Hanna Jr.
About this work
Overview
George Bellows created 'Electrocution, first state' in 1917, a print that depicts a dramatic and intense scene. It is one of his works from a period when he engaged with socially charged subjects.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a man strapped to a chair, surrounded by onlookers in dark attire. The scene is tense and foreboding, conveying a sense of distress and unease. The subject is an execution, reflecting Bellows' interest in dramatic and controversial themes.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by its use of dark colors and bold rendering, creating a sense of intensity. The atmosphere is heightened by the contrast between the dimly lit surroundings and the figures within.
History & Provenance
The print is held by The Cleveland Museum of Art, a testament to its significance within Bellows' oeuvre and the broader context of early 20th-century American art.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Wesley Bellows (August 12 or August 19, 1882 – January 8, 1925) was an American realist painter, known for his bold depictions of urban life in New York City.
