Who painted Return of the Black Square IV?

Return of the Black Square IV was painted by Larry Abramson in 1996.

Where can I see Return of the Black Square IV?

Return of the Black Square IV is held by Israel Museum.

What movement is Return of the Black Square IV?

Return of the Black Square IV is associated with Contemporary Abstract.

Artwork

Return of the Black Square IV

Larry Abramson , 1996

Return of the Black Square IV is an oil painting by the Contemporary Abstract artist Larry Abramson. It dates from 1996 and is held in the collection of the Israel Museum.

About this work

Overview

Return of the Black Square IV is an oil on canvas painted in 1996 by Israeli artist Larry Abramson. The work belongs to the permanent collection of the Israel Museum, where it is displayed among other post‑modern pieces. Its dimensions and exact provenance are recorded in the museum’s catalogue, confirming its status as a late‑career work of the artist.

Subject & Meaning

The figure’s arms are lifted, and a small dark square rests at her chest, while a delicate sprig of leaves extends from the square to her shoulder.

The composition juxtaposes a broad, gestural field of muted yellow‑brown tones with a stark white silhouette of a female torso. The figure’s arms are lifted, and a small dark square rests at her chest, while a delicate sprig of leaves extends from the square to her shoulder. The contrast between the organic background and the precise silhouette suggests a dialogue between natural forms and human presence.

Technique & Style

Abramson employs oil paint to achieve a layered, expressive surface in the background, allowing the yellow‑brown area to appear fluid and atmospheric. The woman's outline is rendered with clean, sharp edges, creating a visual tension between the loose brushwork and the defined figure. The limited palette and the interplay of geometric and organic elements reflect the artist’s interest in abstraction and figurative reference.

History & Provenance

Created in 1996, the painting entered the Israel Museum’s collection shortly after its completion, though the exact acquisition date is not publicly detailed. It has been included in several exhibitions focusing on contemporary Israeli art, illustrating Abramson’s ongoing exploration of form and symbolism during the 1990s.