Josef Istler

Czech, born 1919

Explore selected works

This image features curved and straight lines creating a dynamic composition. The abstract artwork suggests light and shadow interplay, with sweeping curves resembling flowing forms of draped fabric or sails caught in the wind. Intersecting lines interspersed throughout evoke architectural structures or beams, while rounded shapes resemble orbs or celestial bodies within the scene.
Josef Istler, Vegetation, 1948, lithograph in black, Gift of Gerald Cerny, 2000.166.72

Vegetation

Josef Istler · 1948 · lithograph in black ·  Accession ID  2000.166.72

The image features intersecting lines and geometric shapes, including triangles and a large circular form at the center. The central circle is crosshatched with lines and contains a star-like pattern within it. Surrounding this are fragmented lines and forms that resemble a disassembled mechanical structure or a map. The piece plays with textured gradients and varying line weights to create depth.
Josef Istler, Desatero (Decalogue), 1991, etching and aquatint with drypoint in brown ink [artist's proof], Gift of Gerald Cerny, 2000.166.71

Desatero (Decalogue)

Josef Istler · 1991 · etching and aquatint with drypoint in brown ink [artist's proof] ·  Accession ID  2000.166.71