Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Cube

Name Class Date

Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé, Cube (2012), Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle/
Artist’s dates
1926 – 2022
Painted
2012
Original size
232 x 140 cm
Period
Contemporary
Held at
Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/rede-portuguesa-de-arte-contemporanea-a-norte-porto/
Artistic style
Modern abstraction, mixed-media
Notable elements or techniques
Found objects, clock face, wheel
Subject or theme
Geometric forms and urban ephemera

In context

Cube — Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé

How big is it?

The original measures 232 × 140 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height. It is too large to draw to scale on this page.

When was this painted?

  1. 1920
  2. 1930
  3. 1940
  4. 1950
  5. 1960
  6. 1970
  7. 1980
  8. 1990
  9. 2000
  10. 2010
  11. 2020

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 96 at death.

Painted when the artist was 86. The artist lived to 96. 0 of the 2 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé (1926–2022) ▲ this work, 2012 every dated painting, decade by decade

Compare with

  • Cube, 2012 originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-DD3JVB-en/

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-D7TBJZ-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Sap Green #61604d

    Catalogued palette

    • #61604D
    • #E4E5E7
    • #8B8A8C
    • #41392B

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Main colour name
    Sap Green
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Discordant Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Balanced How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Subtle Color How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé over the last twelve months — 1 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 100.0%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 1 most looked-at works by Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé

    1. 1 Cube, 2012 this painting 100.0%

    Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 2 works by this artist, of which 1 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 1 of them, with 100.0% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    About this artwork

    Cube — Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé

    The Alchemy of the Found Object

    In the captivating sculpture Cube, created in 2012 by the master of Nouveau Réalisme, Jacques Mahé de la Villeglé, we encounter a profound dialogue between the discarded and the divine. This intricate work serves as a testament to the artist's lifelong devotion to the beauty found within the marginal remains of civilization. At first glance, the viewer is met with a complex assemblage of disparate elements—a clock face, a wheel, and various mechanical fragments—all woven into a singular, cohesive geometric form. This piece does not merely exist in space; it breathes with the history of its components, inviting the observer to reconstruct the narratives of the objects that once served a purpose in the bustling rhythm of urban life.

    The technique employed here is a sophisticated evolution of décollage and mixed-media assemblage. By integrating found objects into a structured cubic composition, de la Villegly transforms the "debris" of modernity into a high-art experience. The sculpture challenges the traditional boundaries between sculpture and collage, utilizing the textures of metal, glass, and weathered surfaces to create a tactile landscape. For the discerning collector or interior designer, this work offers a striking focal point that bridges the gap between industrial grit and refined abstraction, making it an ideal centerpiece for spaces that celebrate avant-garde aesthetics and intellectual depth.

    A Legacy of Urban Ephemera

    To understand Cube, one must look back to the artist's revolutionary beginnings in the mid-20th century. As a pioneer of the Nouveau Réalisme movement, de la Villeglé spent much of his career exploring the psychogeographical impact of the city. His early fascination with ripped advertising posters and the "liquid art" of urban decay finds its mature expression in this later work. The sculpture acts as a frozen moment of metamorphosis, where the chaotic energy of street life is distilled into a stable, geometric monument. There is a poetic tension at play: the clock face suggests the relentless passage of time, while the solid, cubic structure attempts to capture and preserve that very movement within a permanent form.

    The emotional resonance of the piece lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and curiosity simultaneously. It prompts a meditative state, encouraging viewers to contemplate the lifecycle of objects and the fleeting nature of human industry. Set against the backdrop of natural elements—as suggested by the interplay of light and shadow within its composition—the work creates a serene yet intellectually stimulating atmosphere. For those seeking to curate an environment of inspiration, Cube provides more than just visual interest; it offers a profound connection to the history of modern art and a sophisticated way to celebrate the beauty of the unexpected.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé

    Born in Quimper, France

    early life and career

    jacques mahé de la villeglé, a french mixed-media artist, was born on march 27, 1926. his artistic journey began in 1947, in saint-malo, where he collected found objects like steel wires and bricks from the atlantic retaining wall. this marked the inception of his unique approach to art.

    decollage and ultra-lettrism

    in december 1949, jacques mahé de la villeglé shifted focus to ripped advertising posters, collaborating with fellow artist raymond hains. this led to the development of ultra-lettrist psychogeographical hypergraphics in the 1950s. a notable example is the phonetic poem hepérile éclaté, published in june 1953, featuring unreadable text through grooved glass.

    nouveau réalisme and marginal remains

    as a member of the nouveau réalisme art group (1960–1970), jacques mahé de la villeglé concentrated on the anonymous and marginal remains of civilization. this approach earned him recognition as one of the most outstanding exponents of liquid art, alongside herman braun-vega and manolo valdés.

    legacy and notable works

    jacques mahé de la villeglé's work is characterized by its focus on the anonymous and marginal aspects of society.

    his unique approach to mixed-media art has influenced subsequent generations of artists.

    notable works include his alphabet with symbolic letters and decollage with ripped or lacerated posters.

    further exploration on AllPaintingsStore.com

    for more information on jacques mahé de la villeglé's work, visit:

    artist profile: jacques mahé de la villeglé

    discovering the musée des beaux-arts de carcassonne (france)

    recommended reading:

    jacques mahé de la villeglé's biography on wikipedia: jacques villeglé

    conclusion

    jacques mahé de la villeglé, a french mixed-media artist, left an indelible mark on the art world with his unique approach to marginal remains and liquid art. his legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike, as seen in his notable works and contributions to the nouveau réalisme art group.

    Museum

    Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte

    On show in Porto, Portugal

    Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte: A Tapestry of Northern Portuguese Creativity

    The Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte (RPAC Norte) stands as a beacon of artistic innovation nestled in the vibrant cultural landscape of Porto and Northern Portugal. More than just a collection of museums, it’s an ambitious project designed to elevate contemporary art appreciation and foster collaboration amongst institutions—a testament to Portugal's commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity and aesthetic excellence.

    A Networked Vision:

    Established in 2008, RPAC Norte recognized the transformative potential of uniting disparate artistic endeavors under a single banner. Its core mission is to strengthen Northern Portugal’s position as a global hub for contemporary art, ensuring accessibility and sparking dialogue both locally and internationally.

    Diverse Artistic Expressions:

    Unlike traditional museums focused on singular narratives, RPAC Norte champions a multiplicity of voices and mediums. Visitors embark on an exploration encompassing painting, sculpture, photography, video art, installations—each offering a distinct perspective on the evolving artistic landscape. Rotating exhibitions guarantee fresh discoveries for seasoned connoisseurs and inspire newcomers alike.

    Architectural Marvels: Buildings That Breathe Art

    What distinguishes RPAC Norte isn’t merely its collection but also its architectural pedigree. Each museum within the network embodies a carefully considered aesthetic, reflecting Portugal's rich artistic heritage and embracing modern design principles. From repurposed historic spaces—such as Vila Nova de Gaia’s Museu Serralves, which reimagines an industrial complex into a serene oasis of art and gardens—to strikingly contemporary structures like Centro Internacional das Artes António Vieira in Porto, these buildings serve as canvases themselves.

    Historic Integration:

    Museums like Museu Júlio Xavier Aragão skillfully blend architectural grandeur with the charm of Vila Nova de Gaia’s historic Ribeira district.

    Modern Innovation:

    Conversely, Centro Internacional das Artes António Vieira pushes boundaries with its innovative design—a bold statement against conventional museum architecture and a celebration of artistic vision.

    Celebrating Artistic Legacy: Artists and Exhibitions

    RPAC Norte’s curators prioritize showcasing both established masters and emerging talents, fostering an environment where creativity flourishes. Gerardo Burmester de Almeida's minimalist paintings—characterized by their contemplative stillness and subtle color palettes—offer a profound reflection on artistic form and conceptual depth. Alongside him, Mário Cesariny de Vasconcelos’ poetic verses and surrealist imagery capture the spirit of Portugal under Salazar’s regime, challenging societal norms with audacious brilliance.

    Notable Exhibitions:

    RPAC Norte regularly hosts exhibitions that delve into pressing social issues, explore artistic experimentation, and champion diverse cultural perspectives.

    A Singular Approach to Artistic Engagement

    Ultimately, RPAC Norte’s success lies in its holistic approach—combining captivating architecture, stimulating exhibitions, and a supportive ecosystem for artists. It's an institution that invites visitors not just to observe art but to actively engage with it, fostering intellectual curiosity and nurturing appreciation for Portugal’s contribution to the global artistic dialogue.

    Discover More

    For detailed information about RPAC Norte and its member museums, please visit:

    https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/rede-portuguesa-de-arte-contemporanea-a-norte-rpac-norte

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Cube

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-D7TBJZ-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Villeglé, Jacques Mahé De La. Cube. 2012, Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-D7TBJZ-en/
    APA
    Villeglé, Jacques Mahé De La (2012). Cube [Painting]. Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-D7TBJZ-en/
    Chicago
    Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé. Cube. 2012. Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-D7TBJZ-en/
    Harvard
    Villeglé, Jacques Mahé De La (2012) Cube. Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea a Norte. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacques-mahe-de-la-villegle-cube-D7TBJZ-en/

    Look closely

    Cube — Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: clock face, wheel, sculpture. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Cube (2012), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé was about 86 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Questions & Answers

    What use and space are recommended for "Cube" by Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé?

    "Cube" by Jacques Mahé De La Villeglé is recommended for conversation, ideally in a living room. Use and space together guide where a reproduction fits.

    Is "Cube" free of copyright?

    Regarding copyright, "Cube" is still protected by copyright.

    What is "Cube" about?

    The subjects of "Cube" are clock face, wheel, sculpture, trees, bench, found objects.