Art Collection 20th-Century Art Ⅱ : Western Art
Art Collection
From Rouault's layering of paint and black scratching techniques to Kandinsky's books that weave together images and words, visitors can learn about the unique expressions of each artist, as well as the major art movements of the time, such as Cubism and Expressionism. Enjoy to your heart's content the diverse works of art that flourished in distant Europe.
Dates
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Georges Rouault, “Monique,” 1953-56, oil on canvas, print.
The profile of an unnamed figure, vividly colored in yellow.
Georges Rouault (1871-1958) was a painter and printmaker who was active in 20th-century Paris.
Rouault’s works possess a deep spirituality and are created over a long period of time. His oil paintings, especially this one, are characterized by thick outlines and a complex use of thickly layered colors. Rouault painted many portraits, often choosing nameless people living in the city as his models. The title of this work, “Monique,” is a common French female name; it is unclear whether it was the model’s real name or one given by Rouault. Her elaborate headdress and clothing might suggest she was an actor or dancer on a circus or similar stage, but many of these people lived in poverty.
In the painting, their lifestyle and social status are irrelevant; the figure’s gentle smile is colored with the bright yellow that Rouault favored in his later years.
Related Events
Museum Talk
The curator in charge will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the exhibits!
Date and Time: Saturday, May 23, 2026; Sunday, June 14, 2026; Saturday, July 4, 2026; all starting at 2:00 PM.
Venue: Permanent Exhibition Room 2 (2nd floor)