The artwork entitled “Stag at Sharkey’s,” created by George Bellows in 1909, is an oil painting that epitomizes the American Realism movement. Measuring 122.6 by 92 cm, this genre painting encapsulates the raw energy and visceral nature of early 20th-century boxing matches. The artwork is currently housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) in Cleveland, Ohio, United States, contributing to the institution’s esteemed collection.
Turning to a description of the artwork, “Stag at Sharkey’s” displays a boxing match in full swing, capturing the intense moment of physical confrontation between two fighters. The athletes are locked in close combat, with the focus primarily on their strained muscles and the force of their movement, rendered with vigorous brushstrokes. A referee is depicted leaning in from the right, indicating active involvement in the fight. The scene is set against a backdrop of eager onlookers, whose varied expressions—ranging from excitement to apprehension—contribute to the painting’s dynamic atmosphere. The choice of lighting emphasizes the drama of the scene, with the spotlight accentuating the fighters and casting the audience into semi-darkness, a testament to Bellows’ ability to convey the intensity and spectacle of the sporting event.
