Palimpsest 1951

"Palimpsest" is a 1951 lithograph by Alfonso Ossorio, known for its abstract, gestural style. The work features a dense, layered composition of swirling lines and forms, primarily in shades of green and purple, creating a sense of depth and movement. The title, "Palimpsest," referring to a manuscript written over an erased earlier text, suggests the layered nature of the artwork, where forms and colors seem to overlap and interact. Ossorio's abstract style, often described as "gestural," was influenced by Abstract Expressionism and the work of Willem de Kooning. "Palimpsest" exemplifies this stylistic approach, showcasing Ossorio's exploration of subconscious imagery and the expressive power of line and color.