Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Henri Matisse, ink, 1948
Untitled, by Henri Matisse, ink, 1948

Untitled is an ink print by Henri Matisse. It dates from 1948 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

The hair is drawn as a few quick strokes, and the whole thing looks like it was made in a hurry.

This sketch shows a face with big round glasses and a mustache. The eyes are simple ovals, the nose is just a line, and the mouth is loose and wavy. The hair is drawn as a few quick strokes, and the whole thing looks like it was made in a hurry.

The signature in the corner says "Matisse" and the date "22/25," but it’s actually from 1948. The lines are light and sketchy, almost like a doodle.

If you like this style, check out lithography to see how artists use it to make prints.

Overview

This 1948 lithograph, titled 'Untitled', is a print by Henri Matisse, a prominent figure in early 20th-century modern art. The work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a face with distinctive features, including round glasses and a mustache. The facial features are simplified, with ovals for eyes, a line for a nose, and a wavy mouth. The overall effect is one of spontaneity and informality.

Technique & Style

The print showcases Matisse's experimentation with fluid line and composition. The light, sketchy lines and loose drawing style give the work a sense of immediacy. The lithograph reflects Matisse's ongoing exploration of printmaking techniques during the later phase of his career.

History & Provenance

The lithograph is dated '22/25' in the signature, but it was actually created in 1948. It is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Henri Matisse

Artist

Henri Matisse

Henri Émile Benoît Matisse (French: ; 31 December 1869 – 3 November 1954) was a French visual artist, known for both his use of colour and his fluid and original draughtsmanship.

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