Juan Gris

Seated Harlequin

1920

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Not on display

Artist: Juan Gris 1887–1927
Original title: L'Arlequin assis
Medium: Graphite and ink on paper
Dimensions: Support: 342 × 270 mm
image: 271 × 212 mm
frame: 518 × 431 × 20 mm
Collection: Tate
Acquisition: Presented by Gustav and Elly Kahnweiler 1974, accessioned 1994
Reference: T06809

Display caption

The linear variety of this drawing reveals how Gris could anchor recognisable subjects within a carefully conceived geometry. The character of Harlequin, from the Commedia dell’Arte, emerges out of a sequence of rhyming elements, emphasised by heavier lines. This is a preparatory drawing for a painting of the same title and Harlequin’s identity is indicated by the convention of his curving hat, rather than by his more familiar multi-coloured checked costume.

Gallery label, March 2008

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