Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Byron McKeeby. It dates from 1965 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Byron Gordon McKeeby, an American printmaker, produced the lithograph Untitled in 1965. The work is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection and exemplifies his focus on lithographic processes during a period of active exhibition and teaching.
Subject & Meaning
The image centers on a goat‑like figure with a pronounced beard, sharp teeth and goggles obscuring its eyes. The creature’s open mouth and the stark black background generate a sense of tension, while the goggles introduce a surreal element that hints at perception beyond the immediate scene.
Technique & Style
Executed in lithography, the piece relies on bold, decisive lines and high contrast between the dark field and the illuminated figure. This approach heightens the dramatic impact of the subject, emphasizing its facial features and the interplay of light and shadow.
History & Provenance
Created while McKeeby was developing the printmaking program at the University of Tennessee, Untitled entered MoMA’s holdings sometime after its exhibition history, reflecting the artist’s reputation within mid‑century American print circles.
Artist & collection
Artist
Byron Gordon McKeeby (1936-1984) was an American artist, educator and master printmaker known primarily for lithography.
