Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Jacob Landau, watercolor, 1959
Untitled, by Jacob Landau, watercolor, 1959

Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Jacob Landau. It dates from 1959 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1959, 'Untitled' is a drawing by Jacob Landau, an American artist known for exploring the human condition through his work. The piece is executed in watercolor, ink, and pencil on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts eight figures carrying a stretcher, on which a person lies with outstretched arms. The scene is rendered in bold, flat colors and simple forms, suggesting a focus on the collective effort and the condition of the person being carried.

Technique & Style

Landau's use of loose, expressive brushstrokes and bright colors creates a dynamic visual effect. Faces are reduced to simple shapes, emphasizing the figures' collective action over individual identity.

Context

Landau's work often addressed significant social and historical issues, including the Great Depression and World War II. 'Untitled' reflects his ongoing engagement with the human condition and societal themes.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jacob Landau

Jacob Landau (December 17, 1917 – November 24, 2001) was an American artist best known for his evocative works on the human condition.

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