The artwork named “Playing Scales,” created by artist Carl Larsson, belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and is a fine example of genre painting.
The artwork portrays an intimate, homely scene of a young girl seated at an elegantly crafted grand piano. The girl, dressed in a period-specific attire, appears focused on her practice, with her fingers on the keyboard. The room is detailed with various elements such as a decorative vase with colorful flowers, a striped cloth draped over the piano, and other distinct pieces of furniture and decorations adding to the aesthetics of the setting. The backdrop includes a mixture of artistic elements, such as a sketch of a statue and a collection of ornamental items, encapsulating the essence of everyday life in a refined and warm domestic environment. The use of rich colors and intricate patterns enhances the overall allure of the scene, indicating the importance of music and art in daily life.
