The Juggler

A striking mid-century modernist figurative painting that presents a stylised performer rendered in bold geometric abstraction, executed in oil onto canvas.

The figure, dressed in a vivid patchwork costume of interlocking chevrons and colour blocks, stands poised with one arm outstretched, balancing two circular forms in green and blue. A mask and beret add to the theatrical quality, suggesting the subject is a harlequin or juggler.

The composition is divided into distinct planes of muted colours that heighten the sense of stage-like drama. The ground is dotted with playful red and purple marks, while a looping line hints at a hoop or prop, reinforcing the carnival atmosphere.

Executed in flat planes of paint, the brushwork is smooth and deliberate, with clean, well-defined edges that emphasise the crisp geometry of the design. The palette juxtaposes earthy tones with bright primaries, creating visual rhythm and balance.

This oil on board is housed in a very well suited wood frame finished in a muted silver-grey tone with subtle golden highlights along the inner edge. The painting is in very good vintage condition, with only a small area of paint loss to the gold leaf of the frame.