Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Jannis Kounellis, graphite, 1973
Untitled, by Jannis Kounellis, graphite, 1973

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Jannis Kounellis. It dates from 1973 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Jannis Kounellis's 1973 drawing, Untitled, combines pencil marks on paper with a real kerosene lamp placed on the surface, creating a simple representation of a room corner.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a corner of a room with a door, window, and wall-mounted kerosene lamp, rendered in light pencil lines. The inclusion of the actual lamp adds a tangible element to the otherwise two-dimensional work.

Technique & Style

Kounellis employed a mix of drawing and assemblage techniques, characteristic of Arte Povera, by incorporating a real object into the work. The pencil marks are minimal and textured, while the lamp provides a physical presence.

Context

As a key figure in Arte Povera, Kounellis's use of everyday materials and simple forms reflects the movement's focus on raw elements and uncomplicated presentation.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jannis Kounellis

Artist

Jannis Kounellis

Jannis Kounellis (Greek: Γιάννης Κουνέλλης; 23 March 1936 – 16 February 2017) was a Greek Italian artist based in Rome. A key figure associated with Arte Povera, he studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome.

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