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Visit
Open today 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission is always free

6th and Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20565

Sculpture Garden Extended Hours

Open late until 8:00 p.m. on select nights
Through September 5
Exhibitions & Events
America’s 250th

Celebrating American art and artists
Art & Artists
Open Call

Artists Reimagining the Collection
Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

Untitled 20

1986

Brice Marden

Associated Names

Brice Marden

Artist, American, 1938 - 2023

Jennifer Melby

Printer, American, active late 20th century

The image shows a composition with a central division. Two halves contain bold, angular lines and shapes predominantly in black. On the left side, there is an abstract arrangement of diagonal lines and blurry forms. This resembles the outline of a kite or an aerial view of a tall, slender structure. To the right, thicker black lines intersect to suggest the broad arms of a crane or the framework of an unfinished building. The piece conveys architectural abstraction, prompting viewers to link the stark, linear patterns with recognizable structures.

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Artwork overview

Medium

sugarlift aquatint on Rives BFK paper
Credit Line

Gift of the Collectors Committee and the New Century Fund - Gift of The William Stamps Farish Fund
Dimensions

plate: 20.3 x 17.5 cm (8 x 6 7/8 in.)
sheet: 49.7 x 40.3 cm (19 9/16 x 15 7/8 in.)
Accession Number

1998.77.27
Catalogue Raisonné

Lewison 1992, no. 40/20

Irregular lines and shapes form an abstract composition within a square on a blank background. The black lines and varied shapes resemble fragmented pieces. Some shapes outline geometric forms like triangles and angular segments, creating a disjointed pattern. The composition conveys a collection of undefined, yet oddly familiar shapes within the square. — Untitled 1

Brice Marden, Jennifer Melby

1986

Etchings to Rexroth

Brice Marden, Jennifer Melby

1986

The image shows abstract, angular shapes arranged in a grid pattern across the center of the page. The shapes resemble a mix of triangles and arrows with elongated lines and dripping forms, akin to stylized kites or sailboats in silhouette. The figures present a unique combination of lines that may remind one of hieroglyphics or symbols from an ancient script. The sparse use of ink against the white background emphasizes the geometric and pointed nature of these forms, creating a stark contrast that draws the viewer's eye to their intricate designs. — Untitled 2

Brice Marden, Jennifer Melby

1986

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1992

Lewison, Jeremy. Brice Marden, Prints 1961-1991: A Catalogue Raisonné. London: Tate Gallery, 1992, no. 40/20.

Inscriptions

lower left in graphite: 14/54; lower center in graphite: 20; lower right in graphite: B. Marden 86

Wikidata ID

Q75421663

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