The artwork titled “Maschere No 1” was created by the artist Alberto Magnelli in the year 1909. It represents the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and is a genre painting, a category that depicts scenes of everyday life.
The artwork is a vibrant tableau featuring three figures, each cloaked in costumes with theatrical flair. On the left, a character donning a yellow dress and a black cloak masks their eyes, exuding a sense of mystery. The central figure is garbed in a red ensemble with a large, white ruffled collar, thus becoming the focal point of the scene; their theatrical pose suggests a lively, possibly even comedic performance. The third figure, on the right side of the composition, wears a green dress and a purple and black dotted top, complemented by an elegant white headdress. This character holds a mask aloft, playfully contributing to the masquerade theme. The black background heightens the dramatic and colorful display of costumes, accentuating the expressive nature of Art Nouveau style, known for its emphasis on dynamic forms and decorative elements. This painting captures the essence of the modern spirit of the early 20th century, characterized by an interest in dynamism, style, and the aesthetics of the performative.
