Performer Bowing
1909
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1909
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This painting shows a red-skinned figure bowing deeply, with one arm raised and the other holding a blue object. The background is messy—splotches of blue and black against a light, uneven surface. The lines are bold and uneven, like they were drawn quickly. The red color stands out against the rough, sketchy lines, making the figure look both strong and a little awkward. The blue object in their hand might be a fan or a piece of cloth. If you like this style, look up lithography to see how artists create prints like this.