The artwork titled “Composition for Clarinets and Tin Horn,” created by Ben Shahn in 1951, belongs to the art movements of Expressionism and Surrealism. This piece is categorized under the genre of still life.
The artwork depicts a series of clarinets standing upright in a row, interspersed with hands and a single vividly decorated figure which adds a whimsical element to the composition. The background consists of abstract forms and vibrant hues of blue and red, creating a dramatic and somewhat surreal atmosphere. The arrangement of the clarinets and the mixture of realistic and imaginative elements underpin the expressive and surreal qualities of the piece, reflecting the distinctive style of Ben Shahn.