Composition 1922

This is a composition by Lajos Kassak, made at an unknown date, likely with ink on paper. Look at how he’s laid down these solid areas of black, almost like cut-out shapes arranged on the page. There's a real sense of process here; you can imagine him shifting the elements around, figuring out how they balance and play off each other. It's all about the physicality of the medium: the smooth, opaque ink against the off-white paper. Notice the small ‘KL’ monogram - these kinds of details feel important! The geometric shapes create a sense of order and precision. The triangle hovering above the square and circle creates an odd sense of tension, with the column of vertical lines piercing the circle adding to the feeling. It reminds me a little of Leger, another artist who was interested in simplifying forms. What is interesting here is the ambiguity and multiple possibilities.