Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a graphite drawing by Roger de La Fresnaye. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled is a 1921 pencil drawing on paper by Roger de La Fresnaye, currently in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a cropped, profile view of a person's face, showing only the nose, cheek, and half the forehead. The subject's eyes are closed, and a hand lightly rests on the face, suggesting a state of contemplation or introspection.
Technique & Style
Characterized by simplicity and restraint, the drawing features careful, unadorned pencil strokes with no additional shading. The overall impression is one of spontaneity, akin to a preliminary sketch, yet the subject's face conveys a sense of realism despite the lack of detailed rendering.
History & Provenance
Created in 1921, the work is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection. The paper's slight yellow tint indicates aging.
Context
While the drawing's specific context within de La Fresnaye's oeuvre is not detailed here, its technique contrasts with more labor-intensive methods like cross-hatching, which achieves depth through layered lines—a notable difference given the simplicity of this piece.
Legacy
No specific information is provided regarding the drawing's influence or legacy within de La Fresnaye's body of work or broader artistic movements.
Artist & collection
