Untitled
1948
encaustic
From the collection of Museum of Modern Art
1948
encaustic
From the collection of Museum of Modern Art
This painting shows two strange, bird-like figures with big heads and long necks. Their bodies are wrapped in loose, flowing robes, and they hold small objects in their hands—one looks like a bell, the other a cup. The background is split in half: the top is a deep blue, and the bottom is a bold red. The figures’ faces are simple, with big eyes and sharp noses, but their bodies mix human and bird shapes. The paint looks thick and textured, almost like it was melted on. The colors pop against each other, making the figures stand out. The way the figures are balanced on one leg gives them a floating feel. Try looking up impasto to see how this technique works.