Artwork
Ubu Roi
Ubu Roi is a print by Alfred Jarry. It dates from 1922 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Odd shapes float around—like a suitcase, a lamp, and a giant hand holding a coin.
This poster is all black and white with bold, rough lines. A big, strange face with a crown looms over a small stage. Two people stand there, looking like kings. Odd shapes float around—like a suitcase, a lamp, and a giant hand holding a coin. Words are scribbled everywhere, some in circles, some in speech bubbles.
The title at the top reads *Ubu Roi*, which means "King Ubu." The artist, Alfred Jarry, made this in 1922. It’s not a painting but a printed poster, full of sharp, uneven lines.
Look up Jarry, Alfred to see more of his wild, funny work.
Overview
Ubu Roi is a 1922 print created by Alfred Jarry using a photomechanical process on wove paper in a stark black and white palette.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a dominant, crowned face looming over a diminutive stage with two regal figures. Surrounding oddities—a suitcase, lamp, and a giant coin-bearing hand—convey the absurdity of 'King Ubu,' reflecting Jarry's trademark blend of humor and surrealism.
Technique & Style
Characterized by bold, rough lines and sharp, uneven edges, the work showcases Jarry's embrace of photomechanical printing's capabilities, contrasting with traditional fine art techniques.
History & Provenance
Produced in 1922, Ubu Roi is a late work by Jarry, originally designed as a poster, indicating its intended use for public dissemination.
Context
Emerging from the early 20th-century avant-garde, Ubu Roi aligns with the era's experimental spirit, Jarry's contribution to the absurd and surreal movements evident in its bizarre, dreamlike imagery.
Artist & collection
