Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Elie Nadelman, ink, 1918
Untitled, by Elie Nadelman, ink, 1918

Untitled is an ink drawing by Elie Nadelman. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a drawing by Elie Nadelman from around 1918, is executed in ink on paper. As a Polish-American artist linked to the School of Paris, Nadelman's practice spanned sculpture and drawing, with an additional interest in folk art collecting.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing portrays a figure in profile, facing left, with clasped hands. A distinctive, curved headpiece dominates the subject's attire, characterized by a rounded front tip and side extensions. The figure's simplicity and poised gesture suggest a contemplative or serene state.

Technique & Style

Nadelman employed contrasting ink tones to define the figure against a light beige background. The headpiece is rendered in dark ink, while the rest of the figure uses lighter shades, emphasizing clean lines and minimal detail for an overall effect of elegance and restraint.

History & Provenance

Untitled is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, though specific details about its creation context or previous ownership are not provided in available information.

Context

Created during Nadelman's association with the School of Paris, this work reflects the artist's broader exploration of form and simplicity, potentially influenced by his collection of folk art.

Legacy

As part of MoMA's collection, *Untitled* contributes to the institutional record of Nadelman's draughtsmanship and his place within early 20th-century artistic movements.

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.