Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Seymour Lipton, crayon, 1965
Untitled, by Seymour Lipton, crayon, 1965

Untitled is a crayon drawing by Seymour Lipton. It dates from 1965 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1965, this untitled drawing by Seymour Lipton is executed in black crayon on white paper. The work is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection and presents a rendered study of a sculptural form, emphasizing its structural complexity through line and texture.

Subject & Meaning

The image portrays a sculptural composition consisting of a broad, curved element perched atop a circular base. Numerous interlocking geometric shapes compose the mass, suggesting a dialogue between organic curvature and constructed solidity. The drawing invites contemplation of the interplay between form and space within Lipton’s three‑dimensional practice.

Technique & Style

Lipton employs dense, dark crayon strokes to delineate the sculpture’s surfaces, creating a stark contrast against the paper’s light field. Varied line weights and hatching convey differing textures, while the overall monochrome palette focuses attention on structural detail rather than color, reflecting the artist’s interest in materiality.

History & Provenance

The piece was produced in the mid‑1960s, a period when Lipton was actively exploring abstract metal sculptures. It entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings shortly after its creation, becoming part of the institution’s representation of mid‑century American abstraction.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Seymour Lipton

Artist

Seymour Lipton

Seymour Lipton was an American abstract expressionist sculptor. He was a member of the New York School who gained widespread recognition in the 1950s. He initially trained as a dentist but focused on sculpture from…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.