Untitled (Pegasus and Male Nude)

Art Historical Context

Discover the dynamic *Untitled (Pegasus and Maleude)*, a 1919 linocut by American artist C. Bertram Hartman. Created in the vibrant interwar period, this print measures approximately 241 x 180 mm (image) on a 382 x 260 mm sheet, showcasing Hartman's exploration of mythological themes through a modern lens. The composition juxtaposes the mythical winged horse Pegasus with a classical male nude, blending ancient symbolism of inspiration and freedom with the human form's timeless ideal. Linocut, a relief printing technique using carved linoleum blocks, was gaining traction in the early 20th century for its bold lines and stark contrasts—perfect for Hartman's graphic style. This medium allowed artists to produce affordable yet striking editions, bridging fine art and popular graphics amid post-World War I experimentation. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's Reba and Dave Williams Collection (gift of the collectors), this work exemplifies the era's fusion of tradition and modernity. Hartman's print invites viewers to ponder the enduring allure of myth in a changing world, its clean forms echoing the precision and energy of emerging American modernism.