Artwork

skeleton

skeleton, by Unknown, paint, 1970
skeleton, by Unknown, paint, 1970

skeleton is a paint painting by Unknown. It dates from 1970 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This square-format painting prominently features a human skeleton in a straightforward, upright posture, set against a contrasting, multi-toned background.

Subject & Meaning

The central subject, a detailed human skeleton, is rendered in light brown hues with a subtle glow on the skull, conveying a sense of stark presence.

Technique & Style

The work employs bold color contrasts, with the skeleton's warm, creamy bones juxtaposed against a dark, cool background that shifts from black to a blue-orange blend near the top.

Context

The painting's stark, high-contrast approach and unusual subject matter align with artistic explorations of mortality and the use of bold, expressive color.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known