Aaron Douglas (1934). Aspects of Negro Life: From Slavery through Reconstruction [oil on canvas]. Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York Public Library.

Formally, this composition is a beautiful example of value-based rhythm and pattern. Vertically-oriented figures are arranged horizontally across the canvas, building the clear and wordless narrative at a steady pace. The somewhat dramatic canvas dimensions and interlacing of faunal motifs complement this rhythm. Douglas’ use of value is simply masterful; value builds the narrative, generates conflict-based interest, and drives the emotional content forward. He uses texture, a specific edge character, color purity and consistent shape severity to unite the canvas. 
The strategy Douglas uses to create pictorial depth is as masterful as the rhythm he has built. Plastic depth is built using strictly planar forms that are adjusted in opacity. By merging forms together depending on where they are in relation to the picture plane, steadily decreasing contrast, a form of atmospheric perspective, creates the organized sense of depth uniquely characteristic to this work. He combines this with diminution and the flattening effects of a subtle and impure color scheme.

Douglas reserves the most extremes of contrast to highlight the central figure bearing a voting ballot, which radiates with a light of hope. To the right, a light of truth shines from the Thirteenth Amendment surrounded by celebrating figures. As appropriate to the composition is the motif of cotton blossoms that flows across the canvas, binding the figures in bondage to those gesturing upward with arms free.