The artwork titled “Head,” created by Saul Steinberg in 1945, is a portrait that belongs to the Cubism art movement. This piece manifests the distinctive characteristics of Cubism and is exemplary of Steinberg’s unique approach to portraiture.
The composition portrays a stylized human head in profile. The face is represented with exaggerated and abstract features, typical of the Cubist style, which often involves the fragmentation and recomposition of objects. The head is adorned with a hat featuring intricate, feather-like elements at its brim. The curly hair and prominent nose stand out, contributing to the artwork’s abstract and somewhat whimsical feel. The use of a monochromatic palette with varying shades of purple and the textured patterning enhance the visual intrigue, blending elements of both abstraction and realism. The choice of form and color work together to create a compelling and thought-provoking representation that invites viewers to explore the complexities of human identity and expression.
