Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Maurice Denis, ink, 1923
Untitled, by Maurice Denis, ink, 1923

Untitled is an ink print by Maurice Denis. It dates from 1923 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a lithograph by Maurice Denis, part of a 16-piece portfolio created circa 1923. It depicts a serene garden scene with four children, an adult woman, and a vase of flowers on a low table, set against a backdrop of trees and a distant village.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a tranquil domestic moment, emphasizing warmth and simplicity. The scene may reflect Denis's exploration of decorative and symbolic imagery during his transitional period towards religious art and Neo-classicism.

Technique & Style

Executed in smooth, dark lines, the lithograph conveys a calm, dreamy atmosphere. The facial expressions, though simple, exude warmth, resembling gentle sketches.

History & Provenance

Created around 1923, this work precedes Denis's full immersion in the Ateliers d'Art Sacré. The portfolio's provenance details are not specified here.

Context

Denis's work bridges Les Nabis, Symbolism, and later Neo-classicism. Though influential in broader avant-garde movements (Cubism, Fauvism, abstraction), this piece embodies his quieter, more symbolic approach.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Maurice Denis

Artist

Maurice Denis

Maurice Denis (French: ; 25 November 1870 – 13 November 1943) was a French painter, decorative artist, and writer.

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