Similar Paintings (Present and Past)

Andy Roddick

Quwatha Valentine (American)

2006-2007

Lawn Tennis

Constant Mayer (French)

1883

Similarities:

These two paintings are over 100 years apart, yet they have the same theme/topic; tennis. In both, we see people in the action of playing tennis. We see part (or all) of the tennis court, and we see players hitting in the action of hitting the tennis ball. Something very interesting is that both Andy Roddick and the woman who is hitting the ball in Lawn Tenns both have their knees in the same position. Their knees are bent at almost the same degree. Additionally, many of the people in Lawn Tennis have white hats similar to Andy Roddick's. Both authors use darks and lights to show perspective and dimension.

Differences:

In Andy Roddick (the first) the focus is on one player (Andy), while in Lawn Tennis (the second) the emphasis is mainly on the game of tennis itself. The mood is also different. In the first, there is a strong sense of concentration, focus, and intensity; while in the second, there is a "lighter" feeling, where tennis is like a get together, and a social event. There are many people just chatting, eating and drinking, watching, and relaxing.

Artists' Visions Similarities:

I believe that both of the artists are trying to make a statement about tennis, and are trying to depict certain aspects of the game. For example, Quwatha Valentine, illustrates the competitive game of tennis by illustrating one of the best players. However, in Lawn Tennis, Constant Mayer is depicting the game of tennis as a social, and fun even, where everyone can participate. 

The main aspect of these paintings that connects them is there theme of tennis.