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Frank Stella — River of Ponds IV
Frank Stella

River of Ponds IV

1970

This geometric composition features a series of nested squares rotated at varying angles, creating a dynamic sense of movement within a carefully balanced color palette. Concentric rectangular frames in orange, light blue, and gray establish the outer structure, while an interior olive green diamond shape and cream colored triangle suggest flowing, organic forms that contrast with the angular geometry. The work exemplifies Color Field painting through its bold use of saturated hues and precise execution in gouache, inviting the viewer to experience the interplay between structure and visual rhythm. The layered composition creates an optical effect of depth and dimensional space despite the flatness of the medium.

Medium
gouache on paper mounted on board
Overall

Notes

Contemporary Day Auction, Sotheby's, sale on 2026-05-15.

🔨 Auction Lot

Contemporary Day Auction

May 15, 2026

Estimate: $30,000$40,000

For Sale

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About this work

Frank Stella, River of Ponds IV, 1970

This geometric composition features a series of nested squares rotated at varying angles, creating a dynamic sense of movement within a carefully balanced color palette. Concentric rectangular frames in orange, light blue, and gray establish the outer structure, while an interior olive green diamond shape and cream colored triangle suggest flowing, organic forms that contrast with the angular geometry. The work exemplifies Color Field painting through its bold use of saturated hues and precise execution in gouache, inviting the viewer to experience the interplay between structure and visual rhythm. The layered composition creates an optical effect of depth and dimensional space despite the flatness of the medium.

Medium
gouache on paper mounted on board
Dimensions
overall: 83.8 x 83.8 cm
Year
1970
Seen at
Sotheby's, New York, London, Hong Kong, Paris

Related themes

Rotational Symmetry, Minimalist Design, Chromatic Harmony, Modern American Art, Color Field, Saturated Color, Geometric Abstraction, Optical Art, Gouache Painting, Hard Edge Painting, Contemporary Art, Spatial Illusion, Constructivist Forms, Abstract Composition, Nested Squares

More works by Frank Stella

Collected by

Carolyn Lynx, Alex Capecelatro