Society Ball c. 1907

"Society Ball" is a charcoal and pastel drawing by American artist George Wesley Bellows, created around 1907. The artwork depicts a lively social gathering, capturing the energy and excitement of a dance with its dynamic composition and expressive brushstrokes. The figures are drawn with a sense of realism, but Bellows employs loose, gestural lines to emphasize movement and the fleeting nature of the moment. The use of charcoal and pastel creates a sense of immediacy and depth, bringing the scene to life with a vibrant palette of colors. The drawing reflects Bellows' interest in depicting the social life of the American city at the turn of the 20th century, reflecting the energy of the time period.