“The Figure 4 on an Elegy,” an artwork by Robert Motherwell, dates back to 1960 and is a significant piece within the Abstract Expressionism movement. The work is composed of oil, masonite, and paper, which together create a textured and layered effect. The dimensions of this abstract genre piece are 58 x 73 cm, showcasing an intimate size that encourages close examination.
The artwork features a predominately dark palette with expansive black forms that occupy much of the space, suggesting a sense of depth and complexity. There is an energy to the artwork’s composition, where brushstrokes and splatters contribute to a dynamic surface full of movement. Central to the piece is the form of the number ‘4’, rendered in a lighter shade that stands out against the darker background. This numeral appears almost as an anchor within the tumultuous environment, lending a geometric contrast to the otherwise organic shapes and lines. The title’s reference to an elegy suggests an underlying theme of mourning or reflection, and the presence of the number could hint at personal or symbolic significance within that contemplative context. Overall, Motherwell’s work embodies the spontaneous and emotive characteristics that define Abstract Expressionism, inviting viewers to explore their interpretations of the abstract forms and evocative visual language.
