Stained Glass 1965

Alexander Calder created this work, titled 'Stained Glass', using gouache and ink on paper. Here, the harlequin pattern dominates, a motif rich in symbolism. The diamond, or lozenge, stretches back to ancient times, representing the feminine principle and fertility in prehistoric cultures. The harlequin, with his checkered costume, emerged during the Italian Renaissance as a comedic servant, embodying trickery and agility. Think of Picasso's melancholic harlequins, or the fragmented forms of Cubism that echo the jester's fragmented identity. Calder strips away the figure, leaving the pure, unadulterated pattern. It is a primal pattern, resonating with deeper levels of consciousness. The bold, flat colors evoke a sense of playfulness and freedom. The overlaid ink strokes introduce an element of chance and movement, disrupting the rigid geometry. The harlequin pattern persists, oscillating between joy and sorrow, order and chaos, a testament to the enduring power of symbols across time.