The artwork “Untitled (Pink Palace)” was created by the artist Joseph Cornell in 1948. As a prominent piece associated with the Surrealism movement, it possesses the characteristic dream-like and fantastical qualities of the genre. This particular installation measures 10 by 16 7/16 by 3 3/4 inches and is housed in the Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco, where it contributes to the rich diversity of artworks held by the institution.
The artwork itself is a box construction, characteristic of Cornell’s signature style, which encapsulates a miniature universe. Within the shadow box, there is a depiction of an ornate building with multiple steeples and a classical façade, which appears to be a lithograph cut-out applied against a dark, star-studded background. The palace is flanked by the dark silhouettes of leafless trees, conveying a sense of otherworldly isolation or significance. Below this central edifice, there are small figures that hint at human activity and presence, while the entire scene is bordered by a dark, possibly wooden frame. The contrast between the intricate architecture of the palace and the expansive night sky creates an enigmatic and contemplative atmosphere. The meticulous assembly of objects within a confined space is evocative and suggests a narrative, inviting the viewer to interpret the surreal tableau through the lens of their own imagination.
