Artwork

Twelve Men

Twelve Men, by Arthur Bowen Davies, ink, 1921
Twelve Men, by Arthur Bowen Davies, ink, 1921

Twelve Men is an ink print by Arthur Bowen Davies. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Twelve Men is a 1921 lithograph by Arthur B. Davies, created using lithotint and black ink on wove paper. It is a print featuring a group of stylized male figures.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts twelve nude men in various poses, rendered in simple, abstracted forms. The arrangement of figures reflects Davies' interest in rhythmic composition and the expressive potential of the human form.

Technique & Style

The lithograph is characterized by loose, sketchy lines and a contrast between dark ink used for heads and hands, and lighter gray tones for the rest of the bodies, creating a sense of depth and focus.

History & Provenance

Arthur B. Davies was a prominent American artist and advocate for modern art in the early 20th century United States, known for his avant-garde approach.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arthur Bowen Davies

Artist

Arthur Bowen Davies

Arthur Bowen Davies (September 26, 1862 – October 24, 1928) was an avant-garde American artist and influential advocate of modern art in the United States c. 1910–1928.

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