“Ambiguous Figures (1 copper plate, 1 zinc plate, 1 rubber cloth…),” created by Max Ernst circa 1919 in Cologne, Germany, employs collage, gouache, Indian ink, and paper as its mediums. The artwork belongs to the Dada and Metaphysical art movements and falls within the genre of symbolic painting.
The artwork presents an abstract and surreal ensemble of figures and shapes, meticulously arranged to evoke symbolism and ambiguity. The composition features disjointed and mechanical forms, including elements that resemble industrial objects and geometrical shapes. The use of collage alongside gouache and Indian ink allows for a textured and multi-layered visual effect, contributing to the enigmatic quality of the piece. The color palette is subdued yet diverse, incorporating shades of blue, yellow, red, and neutral tones. The figures within the artwork appear to be amalgamations of various materials and shapes, inviting the viewer to interpret their meaning individually. This piece is characteristic of the Dada movement’s penchant for anti-art aesthetics and the Metaphysical art’s exploration of the mysterious and uncanny.
