Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Ferdinand Hodler, graphite, 1902
Untitled, by Ferdinand Hodler, graphite, 1902

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Ferdinand Hodler. It dates from 1902 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Ferdinand Hodler's 1902 drawing, Untitled, is a work on paper executed in pencil and ink. It is characteristic of the artist's mature style.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a standing figure with arms crossed, shown in profile. Facial features are omitted, emphasizing the overall pose and movement. The loose, confident lines convey a sense of spontaneity, suggesting a rapid study from life.

Technique & Style

The work features a grid background and scattered red marks around the edges. Hodler's use of quick strokes to capture the body's shape is evident. The drawing reflects his 'parallelism' style, a form of Symbolism that he developed after initially working in a realistic manner.

History & Provenance

Created in 1902, Untitled is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection. Hodler, a Swiss artist born in 1853, was a prominent figure in 19th-century Swiss art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ferdinand Hodler

Artist

Ferdinand Hodler

Ferdinand Hodler (March 14, 1853 – May 19, 1918) was a Swiss painter. He is one of the best-known Swiss painters of the nineteenth century. His early works were portraits, landscapes, and genre paintings in a realistic…

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