Ossip Zadkine

French, born Russia (now Belarus), 1888 - 1967

Explore selected works

The sculpture portrays an abstract human torso from the back view, emphasizing the curve of the spine, buttocks, and legs. It is made of dark wood with a rich brown color and subtle variations in grain. The sculpture stands on a square, light-colored stone or concrete base. Its tall, elongated form simplifies and stylizes the human figure without detailed features or appendages. The polished wood contrasts with the matte base, highlighting the sculpture's organic lines and silhouette.
Ossip Zadkine, Torso, 1963, ebony, Gift (Partial and Promised) of Mr. and Mrs. Nathan L. Halpern, in Honor of the 50th Anniversary of the National Gallery of Art, 1991.53.2

Torso

Ossip Zadkine · 1963 · ebony ·  Accession ID  1991.53.2
The sculpture depicts a simplified human figure standing upright. The subject appears to be male, with one arm raised to rest upon the head and the other arm positioned akimbo on the hip. The sculpture features a smooth, stylized form with minimal detail, particularly in the facial area, which is flat with only subtle indications of features. The sculpture is dark brown, almost black. Its surface is glossy. The figure stands on a rectangular base. It is presented in a manner that is both abstract and grounded in the human form.
Ossip Zadkine, Le Jouvenceau, 1961, ebony, Gift (Partial and Promised) of Mr. and Mrs. Nathan L. Halpern, in Honor of the 50th Anniversary of the National Gallery of Art, 1991.53.1

Le Jouvenceau

Ossip Zadkine · 1961 · ebony ·  Accession ID  1991.53.1
The image depicts a series of jagged, interlocking shapes and lines forming an abstract composition. The forms connect and overlap, suggesting the outline of two human figures sitting or entwined. Limbs and heads are discernible amidst the shapes. The artwork evokes a sense of motion and interaction, reminiscent of a cubist interpretation of people huddled together or engaged in conversation. Intricate line work and crosshatching add texture and depth to the figures.
Ossip Zadkine, Two Figures, etching, Gift of Ruth B. Benedict, 1982.86.6

Two Figures

Ossip Zadkine · etching ·  Accession ID  1982.86.6