“Nine Discourses on Commodus, Part V,” created by Cy Twombly in 1963, is an exemplar of the Abstract Expressionism movement. Crafted with oil, wax, and pencil on canvas, this abstract artwork is part of the series titled “Nine Discourses on Commodus, 1963.”
The artwork exhibits a seemingly chaotic yet deliberate composition, characterized by dynamic swirls and splashes of color against a muted background. Dominated by vibrant hues of red, yellow, and white, the piece conveys a sense of dramatic intensity and fervor. The center of the canvas is the focal point, where layers of paint and wax create a rich, textured explosion of forms and lines. This central tempest contrasts starkly with the quiet, neutral backdrop, allowing the viewer’s gaze to be drawn into the tumultuous narrative suggested by the vivid strokes and smeared elements. Faint pencil markings across the canvas add an additional layer of complexity and intrigue, inviting contemplation and introspection.
