ChildbirthAndré Masson · 1955
Lithograph- WallArt
- Surrealism
1955- Modern
53.0 x 44.0 cm
Tate Modern
André Masson (1896 – 1987)
French Surrealist pioneer of automatic drawing and sand and glue paintings who influenced the New York School of abstract expressionists.
Tate Modern (London, United Kingdom)
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Visual Composition and Subject Matter
The artwork is a black and white lithograph on paper depicting a woman in the process of giving birth. The woman is shown lying horizontally and appears to be in distress. Her body is rendered in black and white, though the right hand and shoulder are highlighted in bright red. The scene is set against a mainly grey background.
Several star-shaped motifs are scattered throughout the composition; some are positioned on the woman's body, while others encircle the scene. One star-shaped object is located above her head and appears to be falling towards her. Additionally, the highest star in the composition is red. Two other figures are present in the image: one is located in the top left corner, and the other is situated near the bottom edge on the right side.
Technical Details
Title: Childbirth
Artist: André Masson
Date: 1955
Medium: Lithograph on paper
Original Title: L'Enfantement
About this artwork
- Title: Childbirth
- Artist: André Masson
- Year: 1955
- Original dimensions: 53.0 x 44.0 cm
- Format: Portrait
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Where to see it: Tate Modern
- Period: Modern
- Corpus context: surrealist expression, symbolism
- Color palette: Neutrals
Quick Facts
- Title: Childbirth
- Notable elements or techniques: Automatic drawing
- Artist: André Masson
- Influences: Cubism
- Artistic style: Abstract Expressionism
- Subject or theme: Birth
Questions & Answers
Where is "Childbirth" by André Masson on display today?
"Childbirth" by André Masson is on display at the Tate Modern, London, United Kingdom. The museum listing refers to the original work, not to reproductions.
Which print setup is suggested for "Childbirth" by André Masson?
A print of "Childbirth" by André Masson is recommended at a medium size in portrait orientation.
What kind of piece is "Childbirth"?
"Childbirth" is a wall art piece.