Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Raúl Anguiano. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Her face is turned slightly to the side, and the lines around her eyes and mouth are simple but expressive.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a woman with long, wavy hair drawn down her shoulders. Her face is turned slightly to the side, and the lines around her eyes and mouth are simple but expressive. The background is plain, keeping all focus on her face and hair.
The artist used quick, sketchy strokes to show light and shadow, giving the drawing energy. The signature in the corner reads "Raúl Anguiano 1951," so this was made over 70 years ago.
If you like this style, look up lithography to see how it works.
Overview
Created in 1951, this black‑and‑white lithograph by Mexican artist Raúl Anguiano presents a solitary female portrait. The composition isolates the sitter against an unadorned background, directing attention to the delicate rendering of her face and flowing hair. The work is part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art, where it is displayed as an example of mid‑century printmaking.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts a woman with long, wavy hair that cascades over her shoulders, her head turned slightly away from the viewer. Minimalist lines around the eyes and mouth convey a quiet expressiveness, suggesting introspection or fleeting emotion. The lack of contextual details invites viewers to focus on the universal qualities of the figure rather than a specific narrative.
Technique & Style
Executed in lithography, the piece relies on quick, sketch‑like strokes that capture light and shadow with immediacy. Anguiano’s handling of the medium emphasizes contrast, using stark black against white to model the facial features and hair. The simplified, gestural approach reflects a modernist sensibility, balancing representational fidelity with an energetic, almost spontaneous line.
History & Provenance
The lithograph bears the artist’s signature and date in the lower corner, confirming its production in 1951. It entered the Museum of Modern Art’s collection through acquisition in the mid‑20th century, though details of its prior ownership remain limited. Its presence in MoMA underscores Anguiano’s engagement with print media during a prolific period of his career.
Artist & collection
