Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Yves Tanguy, watercolor, 1949
Untitled, by Yves Tanguy, watercolor, 1949

Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Yves Tanguy. It dates from 1949 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a mixed-media drawing by Yves Tanguy, executed in 1949, combining ink, watercolor, and pencil on paper. It is part of the collection at The Museum of Modern Art.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a surreal, dreamlike forest populated by distorted, spiky trees. Branches terminate in small, ambiguous creatures resembling birds or insects, adding to the eerie yet serene atmosphere. A prominent red blob at the base of one tree introduces a note of mystery.

Technique & Style

Tanguy's execution is characterized by deliberate, expressive lines that appear spontaneous yet controlled. The interplay of ink, watercolor, and pencil creates a dynamic, sketch-like quality that enhances the overall sense of immediacy and fantasy.

History & Provenance

Created in 1949, the work is now held in the permanent collection of The Museum of Modern Art, though specific details of its acquisition or earlier ownership are not provided here.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Yves Tanguy

Artist

Yves Tanguy

Raymond Georges Yves Tanguy (5 January 1900 – 15 January 1955), known as just Yves Tanguy (; French: ), was a French Surrealist painter, known for his abstract landscapes.

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