Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Luis Arenal. It dates from 1947 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Luis Arenal’s 1947 lithograph, untitled, presents a monochrome portrait of a woman seen in three‑quarter profile. The composition is restrained, focusing on the contours of her face and the subtle play of light and shadow across her neck. The work resides in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, where it is displayed among other mid‑century prints.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures a solitary female figure, her hair pulled back and a single earring catching the eye near the jawline. The slight turn of her head suggests introspection, while the stark contrast between illuminated and dark areas emphasizes the psychological depth often associated with post‑war portraiture.
Technique & Style
Created through lithography, Arenal transferred his drawing onto a flat stone or metal plate, treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the intended lines. This process yields crisp, clean edges and allows for nuanced tonal variation, evident in the smooth gradations and deep shadows that define the sitter’s features.
History & Provenance
The print was produced in 1947, a period when Mexican artists were exploring modernist printmaking techniques. It entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings shortly after its creation, reflecting the institution’s interest in expanding its representation of international graphic art from the mid‑twentieth century.
Artist & collection
Artist
Luis Arenal Bastar was a Mexican painter, engraver and sculptor. He was a founding member of the Liga de Escritores y Artistas Revolucionarios, the Taller de Gráfica Popular and the Salón de la Plástica Mexicana. In…
