Please find details of “Untitled” by Mordechai Ardon
Mordecai Ardon (1896–1992) was more than just a painter. He was a visionary who transformed the canvas into a space for spiritual exploration. Born in Poland and trained in Germany, Ardon brought a unique voice to Israeli modernism.
Importantly, he studied at the famous Bauhaus in Weimar. There, he learned under masters like Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Lyonel Feininger. This education grounded him in abstraction, color theory, and modernist experimentation. However, Ardon would later diverge from Bauhaus ideals. Rather than emphasize function or design, he focused on emotion, mysticism, and memory.
Late Works
In the late 1960s, Ardon entered a profound period of artistic maturity. During this time, he painted deeply symbolic works filled with glowing color and layered textures. One such example is an untitled oil on canvas, measuring 20 by 26 inches, signed lower right. Originally shown at Bineth Gallery in Tel Aviv, the piece belonged to a private Florida collection and is now at Kings Gallery.
Notably, Ardon’s landscapes from this era border on abstraction. They do not depict scenery in a literal way. Instead, they suggest spiritual and emotional realities. According to art historian Michele Vishny, these works display a “harmonization of brilliant tones with black.” In other words, Ardon’s paintings glow from within. They radiate color while drawing the viewer into deep, dark space.
Techniques
Furthermore, his technique adds to the mystery. Ardon often applied paint in layers or mixed it with sand and other materials. This created surfaces rich in texture and meaning. At times, his paintings seem to vibrate or emit light. As a result, viewers feel as though they are witnessing a moment of revelation.
Additionally, his works often reflect the Israeli landscape—but not directly. Hills, rocks, and skies are transformed into metaphysical symbols. Through his use of form and color, Ardon created a new visual language. This language speaks of time, faith, history, and eternity.
Today, collectors and museums value these mature works highly. Pieces from the 1960s and 1970s are rare and sought after. They represent the peak of Ardon’s spiritual and artistic expression.
In conclusion, Mordecai Ardon’s art offers more than beauty. It invites us to contemplate what lies beyond the visible. With each brushstroke, he brings us closer to mystery, light, and the soul of the world.
Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. Particularly, we strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes primarily in artists from the early period of the 1920’s. Besides, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
