Tableau no. 2 / Composition no. V is a seminal oil on canvas painting created by Piet Mondrian in 1914. This crucial work marks a significant turning point in the Dutch artist's career, documenting his shift from the representational forms of Cubism toward pure abstraction. Executed during a period of intense artistic experimentation immediately preceding World War I, the composition retains vestigial elements derived from natural observation, likely a cityscape or a pier, translated into a dense, layered grid of vertical and horizontal lines. The palette, dominated by muted ochre, soft gray, and pale blue-green, reflects the influences Mondrian absorbed while working in Paris before returning to the Netherlands due to the outbreak of war.
Created in 1914, this piece illustrates Mondrian's methodology of dissolving subject matter into essential structural components. The artist was rigorously exploring the interplay between structure and freedom, using short, overlapping brushstrokes that create a layered, almost woven texture across the surface of the canvas. Unlike the rigid, distinct geometry that would define his later De Stijl work, Tableau no. 2 / Composition no. V relies on a complex, decentralized arrangement of short linear segments and blocks of color that seem to pulsate with energy. The use of numbered titles, such as this one, reflects Mondrian’s increasing focus on objective principles rather than subjective interpretation of the visible world.
This important milestone in early modern abstraction is held in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. The work is crucial for understanding the genesis of Neo-Plasticism, the highly refined abstract style Mondrian would fully develop later in the decade. Its historical significance and transitional nature make it a frequent subject for study. While the original oil on canvas remains securely housed at MoMA, the enduring influence of this innovative 1914 painting ensures its continuous accessibility through educational resources and fine art prints derived from related works in the public domain.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.