Untitled (Rooftops) c. 1936

“Untitled (Rooftops)” (c. 1936) is an etching by American artist John P. Heins (1896-1969) depicting the rooftops of an urban landscape. The artwork uses simplified geometric forms to depict the rooftops, chimneys, and other architectural details. It is rendered in a tonal range of black and gray, creating a sense of depth and shadow, which is typical of the artist’s work, and exemplifies his signature style of urban landscape representation through simplified shapes and minimalist details. Heins was a prominent figure in the American art scene during the 20th century, and his urban landscapes are often considered to be important examples of early 20th-century American printmaking.