No.9 (Dark over Light Earth) (1954) by Mark Rothko

No.9 (Dark over Light Earth) - Mark Rothko - 1954

Artwork Information

TitleNo.9 (Dark over Light Earth)
ArtistMark Rothko
Date1954
Art MovementColor Field Painting

About No.9 (Dark over Light Earth)

The artwork entitled “No.9 (Dark over Light Earth)” was created by the artist Mark Rothko in 1954. It epitomizes the Color Field Painting movement, an integral part of abstract art, which emphasizes the use of large areas of color to convey a sense of depth and emotion without the reliance on figurative or representational imagery.

The artwork presents a striking composition of color blocks, specifically featuring a dark horizontal rectangle positioned over a lighter, earthy-toned one. The colors exude a luminous quality, and the subtle gradations at the borders between them suggest a sense of fluidity. Rothko’s deliberate use of color and scale manifests an introspective experience, inviting the viewer to a contemplative interaction with the artwork. The application of paint permits hints of underlying hues to surface, creating a vibrant interplay that despite its apparent simplicity, achieves a profound visual and emotional complexity.

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