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Pierrot in Criminal Court, c.1864-70 (oil on wood panel)
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Pierrot in Criminal Court, c.1864-70 (oil on wood panel)
XOS5879730 Pierrot in Criminal Court, c.1864-70 (oil on wood panel) by Couture, Thomas (1815-79); 45.8x52.1 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Painting by Thomas Couture
The Pierrot represents a lower-class fool on trial for stealing food from a restaurant. The stolen items are depicted lying on the courtroom floor as an indictment of his guilt. His accusers sit on the left, while Harlequin, his lawyer, argues theatrically for the defense. The artist's contempt for the legal profession and the court system is plain in the figures of the sleeping judges.)
Media ID 38290000
© Bridgeman Images
Accusation Accusations Attorney Bandit Bootlegger Brigant Clock Clocks Comedia Dellarte Commedia Dell Arte Commedia Dellarte Commedia Dellarte Commedia Dell Arte Commedia Italiana Courtroom Courts Of Law Criminal Criminal Court Denunciation Falsely Accused Fantasy Character Felons Fictional Characters Gangster Harlequin Harlequin (fictitious Character) Interior Scene Italian Comedy Judge Judgement Judges Jurisprudence Law Court Law Courts Lawbreaker Lawyer Light Fingered Malefactor Mask Masking Masks Oil (painting) Pickpocket Pierrot Procecution Robber Solicitor Thief Thug Timepiece Trial
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This painting by Thomas Couture, titled "Pierrot in Criminal Court," transports us back to the 19th century with its vivid depiction of a lower-class fool on trial for stealing food. The stolen items scattered on the courtroom floor serve as damning evidence against Pierrot, while his accusers sit smugly to the left. Harlequin, his flamboyant lawyer, passionately argues for his defense in true theatrical fashion.
Couture's disdain for the legal system is palpable through the portrayal of sleeping judges, highlighting his critique of justice and authority. The scene captures a moment of tension and drama, drawing viewers into a world where innocence and guilt hang in the balance.
The use of vibrant colors and intricate details bring this comedia dell'arte-inspired composition to life, showcasing Couture's mastery as an artist. Through this painting, he invites us to reflect on themes of accusation, prosecution, and false accusations that remain relevant even today.
As we gaze upon this historical masterpiece housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA, we are reminded of the enduring power of art to provoke thought and spark conversation about societal issues past and present.
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