The piece of work communicates the artists feelings about the contrasts that exist in Japanese culture and in our own capitalist culture. The contrast between the male and female form. The muscular form of the man is in stark contrast to the curves and sensuous shape of the woman. Also look at the contrast between the rough marble and the smooth figures. Rothko - Red on Maroon.
Contrasts can be subtle, the maroon hovers above the red.
The intensity of colour gives the painting depth. Sickert - La Hollandaise. The woman emerges from the dark. A good contrast between light and dark that creates a mysterious atmosphere. Observe the wonderful brush marks which tease the form of the woman out of the gloom.