Bandbox (detail) c. 1940

This is a detail of a bandbox by Holger Hansen. There is no date. With its simplified forms and flat planes of color, it almost looks like a stage set. The layering of color here is great. The color palette is like something out of a dream – that almost turquoise sky with the gold and deep reds. It is decorative and also sort of jarring. Look at how Hansen uses these intense colors to create depth and texture. I love how the rooster almost fades into the landscape. It is like it is part of the architecture, its feathers echoing the textures of the building. Thinking about precedents, the patterns and simplified forms remind me a little bit of the Nabis, but with a more folksy touch. I'm just struck by how Hansen has managed to blend boldness with such a delicate touch. It feels intuitive, full of confidence and playful restraint.