Pattern Composition 

This ink wash, titled "Pattern Composition", was created by Victor Hugo, the celebrated French author, sometime in the mid-19th century. Hugo, known for novels such as "Les Misérables," used the stark contrast of ink and paper to explore themes of light and shadow, much like he did in his writing. Hugo's embrace of abstraction was radical, particularly given his fame as a literary figure. During this time, the art world was shifting, influenced by social upheavals and industrial changes, paving the way for new modes of expression. The lack of clear representation invites an emotional interpretation, prompting questions about power, loss, and identity. The ambiguity in "Pattern Composition" allows viewers to project their own feelings and experiences, fostering a dialogue between the artwork and the observer. Hugo once wrote, "what art needs is wildness, tempest, transfiguration, the ravings of a tempestuous soul." This experimental piece reflects a deep sense of personal expression, challenging traditional artistic boundaries and anticipating the abstract movements of the 20th century.