Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Giorgio de Chirico, graphite, 1920
Untitled, by Giorgio de Chirico, graphite, 1920

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Giorgio de Chirico. It dates from 1920 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Giorgio de Chirico's 'Untitled' is a 1920 pencil drawing on paper. It exemplifies his work from this period, characterized by a departure from modern art trends.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a person's head in profile, rendered with soft shading and fine lines. The subject's neutral expression and direct gaze convey a sense of calm, while the artist's use of subtle texture adds depth.

Technique & Style

De Chirico employed delicate pencil work to create a detailed, monochromatic image. Fine lines and shading build up the subject's features, demonstrating his skill with a restricted medium.

Context

This work reflects de Chirico's ongoing exploration of form and space, influenced by his philosophical interests and cultural background. It is consistent with his 'scuola metafisica' style, which later influenced surrealist artists.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giorgio de Chirico

Artist

Giorgio de Chirico

Giuseppe Maria Alberto Giorgio de Chirico ( KIRR-ik-oh; Italian: ; 10 July 1888 – 20 November 1978) was a Greek-Italian artist and writer born in Volos, Greece.

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