Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a pastel drawing by Norman Lewis. It dates from 1935 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled, a 1935 drawing by Norman Lewis, combines pastel on fine sandpaper to depict a mule’s head in profile, characterized by a textured, scratchy representation of fur.
Subject & Meaning
While Lewis is associated with abstract expressionism, this work uses representational techniques, potentially linking to his exploration of themes related to black urban life and social struggles through the humble, labor-associated subject of a mule.
Technique & Style
The rough sandpaper substrate enhances the tactile quality of the mule’s fur. Lewis’s use of pastels allowed for soft color blending, yet here they retain sharpness, contrasting with the typical smudginess of the medium.
History & Provenance
The work is part of The Museum of Modern Art’s collection, reflecting its recognition within Lewis’s oeuvre and the broader context of 20th-century American art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Norman Wilfred Lewis (July 23, 1909 – August 27, 1979) was an American painter, scholar, and teacher.
