The album “Circus” (1950) by Fernand Leger

The artwork, titled “The album ‘Circus'”, was created by Fernand Léger in 1950 and is classified within the Purism movement. It falls under the genre of sketch and study and is a part of the series also named “The album ‘Circus'”. This artwork is presently housed at the Musée National Fernand Léger in Biot, France.

The artwork features a composition centered on a male figure adorned in a red top and white trousers, with his arms folded over two large circular objects, possibly representing the dynamic and rhythmic elements of a circus environment. The linear and geometric shapes characteristic of Purism are evident, with clearly defined outlines and the use of bold, contrasting colors. The background comprises a vertical yellow pattern, complementing the simplicity of the figure and contributing to the overall balance and harmony of the piece. The minimalist style and the emphasis on form and structure reflect Léger’s exploration of the interplay between man and machine, a recurring theme in his works.

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