Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Charles White. It dates from 1971 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Charles White’s 1971 lithograph, titled Untitled, presents an intimate portrait composed of a face and hands rendered in muted tones, set against a textured backdrop. A vivid purple rose occupies the lower portion, contrasting sharply with the surrounding grayscale. The work is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection.
Subject & Meaning
The composition focuses on a serene expression, with the hands positioned protectively around the visage, suggesting themes of care and introspection. The solitary rose, rendered in a striking hue, introduces a note of vitality that interrupts the otherwise subdued palette, inviting contemplation of resilience amid quietude.
Technique & Style
White employs the lithographic process to achieve a range of tonal values, from deep shadows to delicate highlights, creating a sense of depth within the flat surface. The overlapping shapes that form the background resemble folded paper or fabric, while the precise line work of the hands underscores the artist’s control of the medium.
History & Provenance
Created in 1971, the untitled lithograph entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects MoMA’s commitment to representing mid‑20th‑century American printmaking and the broader oeuvre of Charles White, an artist noted for his socially engaged figurative work.
Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Wilbert White Jr. was an American artist known for his chronicling of African American related subjects in paintings, drawings, lithographs, and murals. White's lifelong commitment to chronicling the triumphs…
