Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink drawing by Ben Shahn. It dates from 1955 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1955 drawing by Ben Shahn is an untitled ink work on paper, characterized by loose, expressive lines and a sketchy quality.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a mustachioed man with clasped hands and a contemplative gesture, his finger resting on his chin as he leans forward slightly.
Technique & Style
Shahn achieved the image through layered, textured lines, creating shading that appears rough rather than smooth, a result of building up numerous small strokes.
History & Provenance
The drawing is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, created by Shahn, an artist known for his socially engaged work and left-wing views, who immigrated to the U.S. from the Russian Empire as a child.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ben Shahn (September 12, 1898 – March 14, 1969) was an American artist. He is best known for his works of social realism, his left-wing political views, and his series of lectures published as The Shape of Content. Born…
