Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Munnings, 1957
Untitled, by Munnings, 1957

Untitled is a drawing by Munnings. It dates from 1957 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1957, this drawing by Sir Alfred Munnings records the artist himself perched on a rural stile. Rendered in swift, gestural lines, the work captures a moment of informal repose rather than a polished composition, emphasizing the immediacy of the sketching process.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is shown seated with one leg crossed, torso inclined forward, wearing a hat, loose shirt and belted trousers. By focusing on the sitter’s posture and movement, Munnings explores the casual dynamics of everyday rural life, turning a simple act of sitting into a study of balance and gesture.

Technique & Style

Executed with rapid, rough strokes, the drawing resembles a quick visual note. The line work is loose and unrefined, prioritising the capture of form and motion over detailed rendering. This approach aligns with Munnings’ occasional use of spontaneous studies to inform larger works.

History & Provenance

The piece dates to the late 1950s, a period when Munnings, already renowned for his equine paintings, produced a series of informal sketches. Its current location is recorded in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, where it is displayed among other preparatory drawings.

Artist & collection

Artist

Munnings

Munnings is a surname which may refer to:Sir Alfred Munnings (1878–1959), English painter Catie Munnings, British rally driver Clare Munnings, pen-name of two American mystery authors Frederick Tansley Munnings, British…