Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Elena Semenova, gouache, 1918
Untitled, by Elena Semenova, gouache, 1918

Untitled is a gouache drawing by Elena Semenova. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a drawing by Elena Semenova, executed circa 1918 using gouache, ink, and pencil on board. It is part of the collection at The Museum of Modern Art.

Subject & Meaning

The composition features a prominent circular frame enclosing geometric shapes: two adjacent tall red forms flanked by orange blocks. The perimeter includes small labeled rectangles with numbers and Cyrillic text, suggesting a potential system or code, though its specific meaning remains unclear.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold, sharp lines and vibrant colors against a predominantly gray background, the work exhibits a hand-painted, somewhat rough texture inherent to the mixed media used. The overall aesthetic conveys a sense of modernity and simplicity.

History & Provenance

Created around 1918, the work is now held in the permanent collection of The Museum of Modern Art, though detailed provenance history prior to its acquisition is not provided here.

Context

Emerging during a period of artistic innovation, this piece reflects early 20th-century explorations of geometric abstraction, possibly influenced by or contributing to the broader avant-garde movements of the time.

Artist & collection

Artist

Elena Semenova

Elena Semenova (1898–1986) was a Russian artist.

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