“Cocktails” is an artwork by Archibald Motley, created in 1926. This genre painting is made with oil on canvas and measures 32 x 40 cm. It is associated with the Art Deco movement, which is known for its rich colors, bold geometric shapes, and lavish ornamentation.
The artwork depicts a vibrant social scene. The focal point is a round table where a group of elegantly dressed women are gathered. They are variously engaged in conversation, with one woman standing and looking away from the table. Their dresses are rendered in a mix of light and striking hues, adding liveliness to the composition. In the background, a man in a suit and bow tie carries a tray, possibly containing drinks. The room is adorned with art, including a mirror reflecting an elaborate luminescent light fixture and an open window with a decorative grill that hints at an urban setting. The painting displays bold color contrasts, with an emphasis on purples and pinks, and it captures the lively essence of the 1920s social life with a stylized representation that is characteristic of the Art Deco era.
