The Fencers

The Fencers
The Fencers
(American, 1885-1965)

The Fencers

Date1944
Mediumoil on canvas
Dimensionsoverall: 48 1/4 x 32 1/4 in. (122.6 x 81.9 cm)
ClassificationPAINTINGS
Credit LineSBMA, Gift of Emily Hall, Baroness von Romberg, in memory of Maximilian von Romberg
Object number1949.4
Subject(s)
  • sport
Collection
  • 20th century American
Sub-Collection(s)
  • Modernism
On View
Not on view
Label TextThough the subject matter of fencing recurs in Avery’s work, this is the most collage-like and daringly flat version of the motif that he produced. The 1940s saw Avery veering increasingly in the direction of pure abstraction, foregoing all but the most essential means by which to identify his subjects. In this painting the dynamic movements of the fencers’ post and riposte are expressed through plunging orthogonal lines, created by what could be mistaken for collaged pieces of cut paper, affixed to the surface of the canvas. Paint is thinly applied in contrasting colors and the brushwork is barely discernible in this minimalist version of concentrated repartée.
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