Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Hans Bellmer, ink, 1973
Untitled, by Hans Bellmer, ink, 1973

Untitled is an ink print by Hans Bellmer. It dates from 1973 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1973 etching is part of a diverse portfolio by Hans Bellmer, a German artist known for his work in various mediums, including drawing, etching, and photography. The portfolio comprises multiple print types, showcasing Bellmer's experimentation with different techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts two distorted figures entwined together, with loose, expressive lines suggesting a sense of urgency or spontaneity. A small bowl containing an unidentified object sits below them, adding to the enigmatic nature of the scene.

Technique & Style

The image was created using a combination of scratching and layering, resulting in a rough, sketch-like quality. The surrounding paper shows signs of the artist's process, with stray marks indicating the tool's movement.

History & Provenance

The portfolio, which includes this etching, is held in The Museum of Modern Art's collection, highlighting its significance within Bellmer's oeuvre and the broader context of 20th-century art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hans Bellmer

Artist

Hans Bellmer

Hans Bellmer (13 March 1902 – 24 February 1975) was a German artist, best known for his drawings, etchings that illustrates the 1940 edition of Histoire de l’œil, and the life-sized female dolls he produced in the mid-1930s.

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