Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Jesús Escobedo, ink, 1932
Untitled, by Jesús Escobedo, ink, 1932

Untitled is an ink print by Jesús Escobedo. It dates from 1932 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1932 relief etching on zinc by Mexican artist Jesús Escobedo, presents a contrasting portrait of two men set against a light brown background with embedded Spanish text.

Subject & Meaning

The etching juxtaposes two figures: one in modern attire (hat, glasses, suit) and the other in traditional clothing (sombrero, white shirt, pants). The text, including phrases like 'CAMPESINO de Nayarit' and 'MAIZ', suggests a theme related to agriculture, possibly highlighting social or economic contrasts within Mexico.

Technique & Style

Executed as a relief etching on zinc, the work showcases Escobedo's proficiency in printmaking, characterized by bold lines and a cartoon-like simplicity, effectively conveying the subject's narrative.

History & Provenance

Created in 1932 by Jesús Escobedo, a politically engaged artist and founding member of the Salón de la Plástica Mexicana, the piece is now part of The Museum of Modern Art’s collection.

Context

Escobedo's work was influenced by his studies under Gabriel Fernández Ledesma and Francisco Díaz de León, as well as his affiliations with revolutionary art groups like the Liga de Escritores y Artistas Revolucionarios and the Taller de Gráfica Popular.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jesús Escobedo

Jesús Escobedo Trejo (June 24, 1918 – October 13, 1978) was a Mexican artist specializing in drawing and engraving, one of the founding members of the Salón de la Plástica Mexicana.

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