... policeman. With both arms outstretched, it allows the piece to achieve an aesthetic combination of form and balance. The general appearance of the figure is remarkable yet simple. A closer look, however, reveals a dramatic texture that compensates for the lack of physical bulk. Giacometti uses a rough surface to vivify this figure and to provide a stunning optical effect. Looking closely, I am reminded of an asteroid's surface. This rough look adds to the feeling that the figure portrayed is poor, hungry, and desperate. His face is gaunt, his ribs sticking out of his chest. Both the eyes and the nose are distorted and elongated like the body. The eyes connote a look of confusion or sadness. Meanwhile, his mouth, which is somewhat agape, connotes a look of surprise or astonishment. The contour of the face, which is somewhat ovular, jagged and crater-like, creates shadows that serve to ...

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