Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Elie Nadelman, graphite, 1908
Untitled, by Elie Nadelman, graphite, 1908

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Elie Nadelman. It dates from 1908 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1908, *Untitled* is a drawing on paper by Elie Nadelman, a Polish-American artist linked to the School of Paris, known for his sculptural and draughtsmanship skills. The work features two superimposed faces rendered in ink and pencil.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two stacked faces: the upper face wears a wide-brimmed hat, while the lower face is adorned with glasses. The juxtaposition of these distinct facial expressions and accessories may suggest Nadelman's exploration of identity, duality, or the human form.

Technique & Style

Nadelman employed thick, tangled lines, heavy crisscrossed pencil strokes, and cross-hatching to create depth, texture, and a near-three-dimensional effect. This technique imbues the drawing with a robust, tactile quality.

History & Provenance

*Untitled* is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection. Nadelman's broader artistic practice included folk art collecting, indicating an appreciation for diverse creative traditions.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Elie Nadelman

Artist

Elie Nadelman

Elie Nadelman (born Eliasz Nadelman; February 20, 1882 – December 28, 1946) was a Polish-American sculptor, draughtsman of the School of Paris and a collector of folk art.

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