Three Men in Bondage. 1957. Oil on Masonite. Artist signature and date on the bottom right, "R. Bliss '57. "Framed. 25 1/2 x 61 1/2" (Painting.) 28 1/2 x 64 1/2" (overall.)

A rare, daring, pre-Stonewall homoerotic artwork (painted during the Lavender Scare) and a quite large painting by this influential American artist.

The three male figures are in poses reminiscent of the nude male figures painted by Michelangelo on the Sistine Chapel ceiling (1508–1512). In this painting Bliss depicts each man bound to the other with a golden-colored rope. The rope comes down radiantly from the top left corner and binds the ankle, hand, and neck of each man, entwining the trio together.

Provenance: property of a western Massachusetts collection.

Minor surface abrasions to the center, some bowing to the center of the board and some areas of irregular varnish. Overall the painting shows well and perhaps would benefit from a light professional cleaning.

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