Minstrel c. 1935

"Minstrel" is a woodcut print by American artist Fred Geary, created around 1935. The image depicts a stage performance with a group of musicians, likely a minstrel show, with a banjo player as the prominent figure. The detailed scene is framed by ornate decorations, including a curtain adorned with various motifs like dancing figures and a steamboat, creating a sense of theatrical spectacle. Geary's use of black and white creates a striking visual contrast, emphasizing the silhouettes of the performers and the intricacy of the background design. This work highlights the artist's distinctive style and his interest in capturing the essence of American entertainment, particularly the cultural phenomenon of minstrel shows, which were popular in the early 20th century.