Harlequin and Columbine 1913

Rik Wouters' "Harlequin and Columbine" (1913) is a vibrant pastel drawing capturing the essence of the iconic commedia dell'arte characters. Wouters, a prominent figure in the early 20th-century Belgian art scene, employed a bold and expressive style, using vivid colors and dynamic lines to convey movement and emotion. The composition, featuring a partially obscured Harlequin in a red costume and a more static Columbine in blue and green, evokes the playful and theatrical world of the commedia dell'arte tradition. The fragmented forms and abstract background further contribute to the dynamic and expressive nature of the artwork, reflecting the artistic trends of the early 20th century.