Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by James Castle, 1948
Untitled, by James Castle, 1948

Untitled is a drawing by James Castle. It dates from 1948 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

This untitled drawing is a work by James Castle, an American artist who developed his practice independently. It is dated to around 1948 and is composed of paper, soot, spit, and string.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a building with two floors, showing windows and doors, and a courtyard with various objects including a barrel and boxes. The scene is rendered in dark lines, creating a sense of depth without using color.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of soot and spit on paper results in a range of line qualities, from thick and pronounced to faint and suggestive, giving the drawing a sketchy, unfinished appearance. The paper itself is torn and stained, indicating extensive handling.

History & Provenance

The drawing is held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art, reflecting its significance within 20th-century art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of James Castle

Artist

James Castle

James Castle (September 25, 1899 – October 26, 1977) was an American artist born in Garden Valley, Idaho.

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