Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Natalia Goncharova. It dates from 1915 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1915 drawing by Natalia Goncharova combines watercolor, gouache, and pencil on paper to create a vibrant, simplified scene.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts a nativity scene, with a kneeling woman in red holding a baby, an old man in blue, and surrounding figures including horsemen and a winged being against a deep purple sky.
Technique & Style
Goncharova's use of bold, flat colors and careful lines gives the drawing a childlike quality while maintaining a sense of deliberateness.
Context
As a key figure in the Russian avant-garde, Goncharova was influenced by European modernist movements, including Der Blaue Reiter, while developing a distinctively Russian aesthetic.
History & Provenance
Goncharova created this work during a period of significant innovation, having co-founded radical art groups like Jack of Diamonds and Donkey's Tail, and developed Rayonism with Mikhail Larionov.
Artist & collection
Artist
Natalia Sergeevna Goncharova (Russian: Ната́лья Серге́евна Гончаро́ва, IPA: ; 3 July 1881 – 17 October 1962) was a Russian avant-garde artist, painter, costume designer, writer, illustrator, and set designer.
