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.
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.
