Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Mimmo Rotella in 1973.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.

Artwork

Untitled

Mimmo Rotella , 1973

Untitled is an ink print by Mimmo Rotella. It dates from 1973 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1973, this untitled photolithograph by Italian artist Mimmo Rotella forms part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Executed as a print, the work presents a solitary nude figure against a sky‑like backdrop, rendered in a realistic manner that emphasizes the tactile qualities of skin and hair.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is a blonde woman standing with arms extended, clad only in a black bikini bottom secured by a metallic chain at the waist. The juxtaposition of the chain with the bare body suggests a tension between restraint and liberation, inviting contemplation of sensuality and autonomy.

Technique & Style

Rotella employed photolithography, a process that transfers a photographic image onto a lithographic stone or plate before printing. This method allows for fine gradations of tone and detail, evident in the nuanced rendering of the figure’s facial expression and the subtle texture of the skin.

History & Provenance

The print was produced in the early 1970s, a period when Rotella was exploring the possibilities of mass‑media imagery within fine art. It entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings through acquisition in the late 20th century, reflecting the institution’s interest in post‑war European printmaking.

Context

Rotella’s practice is closely linked to the Arte Povera movement, which emphasized everyday materials and industrial processes. The use of a photolithographic technique aligns with his broader engagement with commercial printing methods, blurring the line between high art and popular visual culture.