The strong composition and dramatic tonal contrast in Ernst Kirchner’s painting immediately grab your attention.

 

The striped dress against the dark sofa establish a strong focal point, but the thing that really gives this work life and vibrancy is Kirchner’s use of raw, contrasting red in the large expanse of green that dominates the painting.

 

Without this extreme color contrast the painting would lack the vitality that brings it to life.

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