Lobster On Black Background

The painting titled "Lobster On Black Background" by Marsden Hartley presents a vivid and somewhat abstract depiction of a lobster. This striking artwork features the lobster in a bold red color, which contrasts deeply against the stark black background. The choice of red not only highlights the natural color of a lobster once cooked but also adds a dramatic and intense feel to the piece.Hartley has painted the lobster with a sense of immediacy and simplicity, focusing on broad strokes and minimal detail, yet capturing the essential form and texture of the lobster. The claws, joints, and segments of the lobster's body are outlined in black, enhancing the segmentation and adding depth to the image. The eyes, barely detailed, add a subtle hint of life to the otherwise still depiction.The use of a black background serves to isolate the lobster, drawing all attention to it and perhaps symbolizing the deep waters these creatures inhabit. The minimalistic approach and contrast of colors give the painting a modern look, focusing on form and color over detailed realism. Hartley's signature and the year (1940-21) are modestly included at the bottom right, ensuring his ownership while keeping the focus firmly on the artwork itself.Overall, the painting evokes a sense of simplicity and power through its bold color scheme and the isolated depiction of the lobster, showcasing Hartley's ability to transform a straightforward subject into a compelling visual statement.