Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Claes Oldenburg, glass, 1966
Untitled, by Claes Oldenburg, glass, 1966

Untitled is a glass print by Claes Oldenburg. It dates from 1966 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1966 assemblage artwork by Claes Oldenburg, comprising various materials including aluminum, fiberglass, and synthetic polymer paint. The piece is a mixed-media construction featuring a diverse array of objects.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork presents a collection of disparate objects, including a wooden box inscribed with the names of notable artists, a metal dog, a cake on a porcelain plate, and other items. The playful tone and references to contemporary artists suggest a commentary on the art world and everyday culture.

Technique & Style

Oldenburg's use of diverse materials and techniques, such as hand-painting and combining different textures, reflects his experimental approach to sculpture. The artwork's assemblage style and incorporation of everyday objects are characteristic of his practice, which often blurred the lines between art and mundane reality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1966, Untitled predates Oldenburg's collaboration with Coosje van Bruggen, which would become a defining aspect of his later work. The piece is part of the collection at The Museum of Modern Art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Claes Oldenburg

Artist

Claes Oldenburg

Claes Oldenburg (January 28, 1929 – July 18, 2022) was a Swedish-born American sculptor best known for his public art installations, typically featuring large replicas of everyday objects.

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