Untitled

Untitled

Ben Shahn

1961

gouache

From the collection of Museum of Modern Art

About this work

This room looks empty but busy. A tall mirror leans against the right wall, its frame dark and ornate. A single chair sits near a blue door, which is open just a crack. Three yellow wall sconces glow faintly, and a chandelier hangs above, its bulbs dim. The floor has a swirly pattern in pale pink and white. The walls feel flat, almost like they’re made of paper. The artist used bright colors but kept everything simple—no fancy details, just shapes and lines. The blue door stands out against the pale walls, making the room feel quiet but a little strange. If you like this style, check out the gouache technique next.

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