Side Chair 1936

Arthur Johnson's "Side Chair" (1936) is a realistic depiction of a simple wooden chair, rendered with meticulous detail. The chair's intricate carvings, particularly on the back, are highlighted through the use of light and shadow. The chair's isolation against a plain background creates a sense of stillness, inviting viewers to contemplate the everyday object and its history. The work's small scale, 11 13/16 x 9 inches, emphasizes intimacy and observation. This painting showcases Johnson's mastery of still life, a genre that allows for close examination of everyday objects and their significance.