Ralph Chessé

Chessé, Ralph Alexander

American, 1900 - 1991

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The image shows a glass compote filled with a variety of fruits in the center. The fruits include grapes, apples, and pears. The color palette consists of deep purples, greens, and reds. In the foreground are two bananas and a cluster of strawberries on a light-colored table surface. The background features a draped curtain in warm, dark purple hues.
Ralph Chessé, Glass Compote, 1940, color screenprint on laid paper, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1229

Glass Compote

Ralph Chessé · 1940 · color screenprint on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1229

The image displays an abstract composition of bold, curving lines and shapes that subtly suggest human figures. The figures resemble people dressed in long robes and wide-brimmed hats, with one figure raising an arm. The textured, earthy backdrop adds depth and a circular shape at the base resembles a musical instrument. The overall impression is one of movement and presence within an abstract setting.
Ralph Chessé, Gospel Singers, c. 1930, woodcut in red on gold foil paper mounted on black wove paper, Gift of Bob Stana and Tom Judy, 2019.109.21

Gospel Singers

Ralph Chessé · c. 1930 · woodcut in red on gold foil paper mounted on black wove paper ·  Accession ID  2019.109.21