The artwork titled “Composition (The Cow)” is a sketch and study created by the artist Theo van Doesburg around the year 1917. Rendered using pencil on paper and measuring 11.7 x 15.9 cm, this piece is associated with the Cubist art movement. The artwork is part of the collection at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, USA.
The artwork features an abstract and geometric representation characteristic of Cubism. The composition is composed of intersecting and overlapping lines, creating a fragmented and multifaceted depiction that suggests the form of a cow through non-traditional means. The lines are applied with varying degrees of pressure, providing a sense of depth and dynamism. The minimalistic and linear approach reflects van Doesburg’s exploration of form and structure, emphasizing a deconstructed perception of reality. The overall effect is a study in abstraction, inviting viewers to contemplate the reinterpretation of familiar forms and the essence of Cubist aesthetics.
