Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Alton Pickens, oil, 1949
Untitled, by Alton Pickens, oil, 1949

Untitled is an oil painting by the Abstract Expressionist artist Alton Pickens. It dates from 1949 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is an abstract oil painting created by Alton Pickens in 1949, held at The Museum of Modern Art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a chaotic scene of people and a monkey in a room with wooden beams. The monkey, wearing a blue mask and gloves on a green box, is surrounded by people holding various objects, contributing to an atmosphere of confusion.

Technique & Style

Bold colors and distorted forms characterize the painting, creating a sense of unease. The artist's use of chiaroscuro adds depth to the scene, while the visible wooden beams and floor provide context.

Artist & collection

Artist

Alton Pickens

Alton Pickens (1917–1991) was an American artist, born in Seattle.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.