Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a tempera drawing by Jacob Lawrence. It dates from 1950 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1950 by Jacob Lawrence, *Untitled* is a casein tempera drawing on paper that captures a somber scene of men in contemplation within a geometrically abstracted environment.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a group of men in robes standing before a complex, abstract backdrop, with some bowed in apparent seriousness or contemplation. A low table holds small, colored objects under a white cloth, suggesting a ritual or solemn gathering.
Technique & Style
Lawrence's 'dynamic cubism' style, blending European modernism with West African and Meso-American influences, is evident in the bold contrasts of dark tones with vivid colors. The casein tempera on paper adds a distinctive texture, enhancing the composition's depth and nuance.
History & Provenance
While specific provenance details for *Untitled* (1950) are not provided, Jacob Lawrence's career spanned significant teaching roles, notably 16 years as a professor at the University of Washington, alongside his prolific artistic output focusing on the African-American experience.
Context
Part of Lawrence's broader oeuvre exploring everyday and historical African-American life, *Untitled* reflects his unique stylistic fusion and thematic focus, set against the backdrop of Harlem's vibrant yet challenging mid-20th-century context.
Legacy
As part of Lawrence's body of work, *Untitled* contributes to his legacy of visually narrating the African-American experience through a distinctive, culturally rich artistic lens, influencing subsequent generations of artists and educators.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jacob Armstead Lawrence (September 7, 1917 – June 9, 2000) was an American painter known for his portrayal of African-American historical subjects and contemporary life.
