In Viola Obligato, the viewer is greeted by a dreamlike scene filled with soft, muted colors. A central figure holds a viola, surrounded by abstract forms that suggest a lush, otherworldly landscape. The colors blend harmoniously, creating a sense of calm and introspection.

This figurative work invites viewers to ponder the relationship between music and the visual arts. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich texture and depth. The brushwork is fluid, enhancing the dreamlike quality of the scene. The figure's expression is contemplative, adding to the overall atmosphere of the piece.

Viewers can appreciate the careful attention to detail in the figure's clothing and the surrounding abstract elements. Arthur Bowen Davies was an influential American artist associated with the Symbolist movement. Viola Obligato reflects his interest in the interplay of music and visual art, a theme he explored throughout his career. An interesting fact about this work is that it was created during a time when Davies was deeply engaged in the New York art scene, contributing to the development of modern American art.