The artwork “Cori with a Balloon,” created by Robert Henri in 1907, belongs to the American Realism movement and is classified as a portrait genre.
The artwork portrays a young girl, Cori, holding a bright red balloon while seated, possibly on a wooden stool or crate. Her attire consists of light, flowing clothing that appears to be slightly oversized, contributing to an impression of innocence and simplicity. The setting is somewhat dimly lit, contrasting with her illuminated face and the vibrant hue of the balloon, which draws the viewer’s eye. Basket filled with small red apples sits nearby, adding a homely touch to the scene. The strokes of the paint are bold, reflecting Henri’s characteristic style and emphasizing the textures and lights within the portrait. The overall mood conveyed by the artwork is one of tranquility and contemplation.
