Untitled (1968) is a monumental oil on canvas by Jean-Paul Riopelle, reflecting the creative vitality of the artist during a pivotal period in his career. Measuring an impressive 162.3 x 96.5 cm, this composition illustrates Riopelle's absolute mastery in managing colored masses and painterly movement.

In this work, the artist employs an energetic gesture where the medium densifies to create complex layers. The balance between the dynamic forces of the composition and the depth of the chromatic nuances offers an immersive reading, characteristic of Riopelle’s unique style in the 1960s. This piece is a significant example of the evolution of his abstract language, where the juxtaposition of textures and the rigor of the stroke result in a powerful and structured visual harmony.

References and Documentation

The historical importance of this work is documented in the authoritative catalogue raisonné:

• Publication: Yseult Riopelle, Jean-Paul Riopelle, Catalogue raisonné, volume 4, Hibou Éditeurs, Montréal, 2014, p. 160, reproduced in color under reference 1968.014H.1968.

• Notable Provenance: This canvas has been part of prestigious collections, including the Pierre Matisse Gallery (New York) and Acquavella Modern Art (Reno, Nevada).

• Exhibitions: It was notably featured in the exhibition Riopelle, les années 1960 at the Didier Imbert Gallery in Paris in 1994.