The artwork titled “On the balcony” was created by Georges Seurat, a renowned Post-Impressionist artist. This genre painting is executed in crayon on paper and measures 31.5 x 24.6 cm. The artwork embodies the essence of Post-Impressionism, a movement characterized by a focus on light and color, personal expression, and a departure from the objective naturalism of the preceding Impressionists.
In examination of the artwork, one can observe the silhouetted figure of an individual positioned near a railing, presumably of a balcony, as suggested by the title. The subject’s form is illuminated from behind, casting a pronounced shadow that envelops much of the central and left portions of the composition. The distinct lines of the balcony’s railing create a stylized pattern, contrasting with the soft, dark texture of the shadowed region. The presence of the small dog adds a note of intimacy and domesticity to the artwork. The use of crayon has allowed the artist to build rich contrasts and gradations of light and shadow, a technique that showcases Seurat’s mastery in rendering atmospheric effects and mood, further enhancing the introspective quality of the scene.
