The artwork entitled “Japanese Girl with Red Table,” created by Balthus in 1967, is a masterful oil painting on canvas. This piece is noted for its contribution to both the Expressionism and Japonism movements and falls under the genre of genre painting. Currently held in a private collection, the artwork depicts an intimate domestic scene that highlights Balthus’ characteristic style and thematic interests.
The composition presents a Japanese girl in repose, partially draped in a traditional garment that leaves parts of her body exposed, capturing a moment of stillness and introspection. Her gaze is turned towards an undefined space, creating a sense of mystery and contemplation. To the right of the girl, a vibrant red table adorned with a vase and pottery contrasts starkly with the muted tones of the rest of the scene, drawing the viewer’s eye and anchoring the composition. The delicate brushwork and subtle interplay of light and shadow underscore the serene yet enigmatic atmosphere, encapsulating a blend of Western and Eastern aesthetic sensibilities.
