Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a photographic photography by Otakar Španiel. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
A black-and-white photograph, mounted on a green card, depicts a small sculpture of a robed figure in a dynamic pose, with one arm raised and the other at their side, conveying a sense of movement despite being static.
Subject & Meaning
The sculpture shows a robed figure in a pose suggestive of holding an object aloft, though the object itself is not present in the image. The figure's dynamic stance and draped garment imply energy and movement.
Technique & Style
The sculpture appears to be crafted from a heavy material, possibly bronze or plaster, as indicated by the rendering of smooth, flowing folds in the figure's garment and the overall solidity of the form.
History & Provenance
The photograph was part of a response to a survey conducted by William Kineton Parkes, a novelist and art historian, who queried sculptors in the 1920s. It was bequeathed to the collection in 1938 as part of Parkes' donation.
Context
This photograph is one of many in the Archive of Art and Design, documenting submissions from sculptors to Parkes' survey, providing insight into early 20th-century sculptural practices and the network of artists and critics.
Artist & collection
Artist
Czech medallist Otakar Španiel carved medals and sculpted small bronze portraits in the early 20th century.
