Fernand Léger, The two women with birds by Atelier Liesjes

Les deux femmes aux oiseaux by Fernand Léger shows two monumental female figures that are rigidly and geometrically constructed. The bodies are simplified into cylindrical and angular forms, typical of Léger's modernist style. Bright, contrasting colours and black outlines give the painting an almost mechanical rhythm. The birds act as playful, lively elements that contrast with the heavy, static figures, creating a balance between man, nature and modernity.

Fernand Léger was a French artist born in Argentan, Normandy. He began his career as an architectural draftsman before devoting himself entirely to painting. In Paris, he studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and the Académie Julian, where he came into contact with avant-garde artists such as Robert Delaunay and Marc Chagall.

Léger is considered an important representative of cubism, but he soon developed his own style that was distinct from that of Picasso and Braque. His work is characterised by:

Geometric forms: He used cylindrical and mechanical structures to abstract people and objects.

Bright, contrasting colours: Léger often chose bright areas of colour that he juxtaposed to create depth and rhythm.

Industrial and modern theme: His paintings often reflect the dynamics of the modern city and technology.

Figurative elements: After World War I, his works became more accessible and included more recognisable human figures.

His style influenced later movements such as pop art and he also worked with film, mosaic and sculpture.