The artwork, titled “Untitled (Variations around La Poupée)”, is a sketch and study created by Hans Bellmer circa 1932 to 1934. This piece encapsulates the artist’s distinctive style and thematic focus during this period.
In the artwork, a humanoid figure is depicted, composed of various interconnected parts, resembling machinery or anatomical study. The torso and limbs appear fragmented and mechanical, with different sections revealing intricate patterns and internal components, reminiscent of a doll or mannequin. The head is detailed with cross-hatching and geometric shapes, conveying a sense of rigidity and artificiality. Surrounding the figure are abstract lines and forms, adding to the surreal and disjointed nature of the composition. This artistic approach emphasizes Bellmer’s interest in exploring the complexities and the unsettling aspects of human form and identity.