William Gropper
The Whip - Social Realism, 1955-1965
Oil on Masonite
23 1/2 × 17 in / 59.7 × 43.2 cm
$ 12,500.00
Further images
Work is marked on reverse 'Rhythm' and 'The Whip.' on verso - We are not sure the exact meaning of this work. Gropper was a social realist and a radical...
Work is marked on reverse "Rhythm" and "The Whip." on verso - We are not sure the exact meaning of this work. Gropper was a social realist and a radical of his time and a commentator on political and social issues. Arguably, this is not meant to be an expected formula portrait that flatters the subject. Instead, it's most likely a statement about nightlife. The brushstroke is dynamic and expressionist. There is an inscription on verso, "The Whip" that could be a satirical reference to a "fetish". Or simply this is just an emotionally charged portrait or an energetic dancer in a joyful moment.