Ridiculous Portrait (Cello, Cherub) by May Wilson

Ridiculous Portrait (Cello, Cherub) 1972

maywilson

gouache

abstract painting

possibly oil pastel

oil painting

acrylic on canvas

underpainting

painterly

men

painting painterly

watercolour illustration

musical-instrument

watercolor

"Ridiculous Portrait (Cello, Cherub)" is a 1972 painting by American artist May Wilson (1905-1986). The painting features a woman in a red dress holding a cello, while a nude cherub stands behind her holding a sheet of music. This humorous juxtaposition of classical elements with an unconventional approach is characteristic of Wilson's work. The artwork is a playful commentary on artistic tradition, using a recognizable Renaissance-style portrait to create a humorous and contemporary piece.