Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Maurice Sterne, oil, 1928
Untitled, by Maurice Sterne, oil, 1928

Untitled is an oil painting by the American Impressionist artist Maurice Sterne. It dates from 1928 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1928 oil on canvas painting by Maurice Sterne, is a portrait of a woman characterized by its thoughtful composition and expressive brushwork.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a serene yet serious woman, sits in contemplative pose, holding a red-and-white object. Her calm demeanor and simple, light-hued attire contrast with the rich, warm yellow background, inviting quiet reflection.

Technique & Style

Sterne employs varied brushstrokes, with thick, textured strokes on the woman's dress juxtaposed with softer, more subdued strokes on her skin and the dark wooden chair, utilizing chiaroscuro to create depth through light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Created during Sterne's association with the American Impressionist movement and his connection to philanthropist Mabel Dodge Luhan, the painting is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Maurice Sterne

Artist

Maurice Sterne

Maurice Sterne (Latvian: Moriss Šterns, 1877 or 1878 – July 23, 1957) was an American sculptor and painter remembered for his association with philanthropist Mabel Dodge Luhan, to whom he was married from 1916 to 1923.

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