Untitled (Related to “Antigone”). c. early 1940s

Mark Rothko's "Untitled (Related to “Antigone")", a watercolor dating from the early 1940s, showcases the artist's early explorations of figurative expressionism. The piece depicts a group of figures in a simplified, almost abstract style, with a focus on strong color contrasts and gestural brushstrokes. This work hints at Rothko's move away from representational art, which he would further develop in his later, iconic color-field paintings. The title referencing the Greek tragedy "Antigone" suggests an exploration of themes of conflict and human drama.