Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Paul Klee, oil, 1929
Untitled, by Paul Klee, oil, 1929

Untitled is an oil painting by the Bauhaus artist Paul Klee. It dates from 1929 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1929 oil on cardboard painting by Paul Klee, embodies the artist's experimental spirit through its abstract composition and innovative color application.

Subject & Meaning

The work's abstract nature, characterized by horizontal stripes of varied colors and widths, explores depth and texture, reflecting Klee's engagement with avant-garde movements like Bauhaus, Expressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism.

Technique & Style

Klee's meticulous color theory, as documented in his writings, is evident in the predominantly brown, blue, and purple palette, punctuated by a single red square, all set within a dark brown frame on a square canvas.

History & Provenance

Created in 1929, this piece exemplifies Klee's contributions to modern art during his period of intense artistic innovation.

Context

Part of Klee's broader oeuvre that blends multiple early 20th-century art movements, 'Untitled' sits alongside works by other pioneers of abstract and expressive art.

Legacy

This painting, with its simple yet compelling composition, continues to interest viewers familiar with Klee's style, often directing them towards further exploration of his body of work.

Fire in the Evening
Fire in the Evening, Paul Klee

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Klee

Artist

Paul Klee

Paul Klee (German:; 18 December 1879 – 29 June 1940) was a Swiss-born German artist.

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Paul Klee in 1929.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Bauhaus.