Artwork

Elsie, Figure

Elsie, Figure, by George Bellows, 1921
Elsie, Figure, by George Bellows, 1921

Elsie, Figure is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

This sketch shows a woman sitting sideways in a chair, her body turned slightly away.

This sketch shows a woman sitting sideways in a chair, her body turned slightly away. She wears a dark, high-necked dress with a light shawl draped over her shoulders. Her hair is pulled back, and she holds a small object in her lap.

The artist left the background plain, focusing on the figure’s pose and clothing. The lines are loose and expressive, almost like a quick study.

Check out George Bellows (American, 1882–1925) for more sketches like this.

Overview

Elsie, Figure is a print created by George Bellows in 1921. It is a representation of a seated woman, captured in a simple yet expressive composition.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a woman sitting in a chair, turned slightly away from the viewer. She is dressed in a dark, high-necked dress with a light shawl over her shoulders, and holds a small object in her lap.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by loose, expressive lines, suggesting a quick study. The artist focused on the figure's pose and clothing, leaving the background plain and unadorned.

Artist & collection

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.