The artwork titled “Black Square” was created by Kasimir Malevich in 1915 using tempera on canvas. Measuring 106 by 106 centimeters, the piece stands as a seminal work of the Suprematist movement and is classified within the abstract genre. Currently, it is housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
“Black Square” exemplifies the radical abstraction that Malevich and Suprematism are known for, stripping away all representational elements to focus purely on basic geometric forms and the inherent relationships between them. The painting is dominated by a large black square that is centralized against a white background, though upon closer inspection one can discern subtle variations in tone and texture within the black field, as well as the inevitable signs of aging such as cracking and discoloration. The stark contrast between the square and its surroundings evokes various interpretations concerning the nature of space, the role of visual language, and the reduction of form to its most essential aspects. This bold and pioneering work marked a significant break from traditional art of the period, emphasizing the profound simplicity and potential for spiritual reflection inherent in abstract forms.
