Success and Failure c. 1986s

This is a simple line drawing by American artist Saul Steinberg titled "Success and Failure," created in the 1980s. The artwork depicts a lone figure standing on a rocky precipice labeled "Failure" and waving a flag. Below, at the foot of the rock, is another figure who has seemingly fallen, labeled "Success." The artwork is a characteristic example of Steinberg’s use of humor and wit to comment on human nature and society, in this case, the often-perceived disparity between ambition and achievement. This piece highlights Steinberg's minimalist style with its simple lines and use of labels to communicate complex ideas.