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The Parlor Critic, by George Bellows, 1921

The Parlor Critic

George Bellows

1921

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

The Parlor Critic is a 1921 by George Bellows, depicting Cummerbund, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?
George Bellows
When & what style?
1921
Where can I see it?
Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

The painting shows a man sitting in a parlor, looking unimpressed. He's surrounded by fancy decorations, but his expression says otherwise. The man's reaction is what makes this painting interesting - it seems like he's judging the room and its occupants. The scene is quiet and intimate, with the man's face being the main focus. His expression is subtle, yet it conveys a sense of disapproval or boredom. This subtle detail adds depth to the painting. You can learn more about this style by looking into the technique of chiaroscuro.

About the artist

Portrait of George Bellows
Artist

George Bellows

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.

See the richer artist page

More by George Bellows

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