Levine at WAM

Medicine Show IV
Jack Levine
1958
oil on canvas

Content:  This artwork relates well to one of the main themes of Levine’s work.  He wants to expose the “crooked” people in society who take advantage of others, whether they be politicians, businessmen, or, in this case, a salesman.  The subject of this painting is selling some type of medication with the use of fancy dancing girls and show quality salesmanship.  Given the setting of the medicine show, it is hard to believe that the medication could be of high quality or could cure the ailments of anyone.  It is a lie – a waste of money.