Artwork

The Tournament

The Tournament, by George Bellows, 1920
The Tournament, by George Bellows, 1920

The Tournament is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1920 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Tournament is a print by George Bellows, depicting a tennis match in progress.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows a lively outdoor tennis match with spectators, capturing the sport's popularity among the early 20th-century upper class. Tennis was associated with exclusivity and prestige, played at private clubs by those of high social standing.

Technique & Style

The work employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a dynamic atmosphere.

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.