Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Gwen John, oil, 1910
Untitled, by Gwen John, oil, 1910

Untitled is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Gwen John. It dates from 1910 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

This untitled oil on canvas painting, created around 1910 by Gwen John, is a portrait of a woman. It is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman in a simple white dress with a black sash, her hair pulled back, and a calm expression. The plain green background emphasizes her figure.

Technique & Style

Gwen John used loose, visible brushstrokes, creating a textured effect, particularly on the subject's skin and dress. This technique highlights the interplay of light and shadow.

Context

Gwen John worked in France during the post-impressionist period, primarily creating portraits of anonymous female subjects using closely related tones.

History & Provenance

Gwen John's work gained less recognition during her lifetime compared to her brother Augustus John and mentor Auguste Rodin, but has since been reevaluated.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gwen John

Artist

Gwen John

Gwendolen "Gwen" Mary John (22 June 1876 – 18 September 1939) was a Welsh artist who worked in France for most of her career.

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