15131 (_Dearest people …_) 1931

This mixed-media work was created by John Elsas in 1931, combining drawing, collage, and inscription. The artist likely cut the silhouette of the figure's head from black paper, accentuating the figure with hand-drawn embellishments. The juxtaposition of the graphic silhouette and the soft rendering of the ruff creates a compelling visual tension. Elsas's choice of materials is significant. The flat, bold paper contrasts the more traditional application of pencil, and the use of collage suggests a break from traditional artmaking practices. The inscription below, penned by hand, adds another layer of meaning, inviting us to reflect on the social context in which the work was created. Though the exact meaning is not clear, the combination of image and text evokes themes of identity and social commentary. Ultimately, the value of this work lies in its use of diverse materials and techniques, and its position at the intersection of craft, fine art, and social observation.