Skip to main content
Video Loading
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 11

Pawel Kontny "Cosmos" 1960s Textured Abstract Mixed Media Painting

circa 1960-1970

$4,350
£3,276.72
€3,823.11
CA$6,153.26
A$6,190.95
CHF 3,593.44
MX$75,451
NOK 41,477.60
SEK 42,561.59
DKK 28,576.59

About the Item

Pawel Kontny (Polish-American, 1923–2002) Cosmos, Circa 1965 Mixed media with marble dust, gesso, and oil glaze on masonite Framed dimensions: 25½ × 28½ inches A striking example of mid-century Abstract Expressionism, Cosmos is an original 1960s mixed-media painting by acclaimed Polish-American modernist Pawel Kontny. Combining innovative materials, sculptural texture, and atmospheric abstraction, this exceptional work reflects Kontny’s unique approach to surface, depth, and visual movement. Created using a distinctive combination of marble dust, gesso, and oil glaze on masonite, the painting features a richly textured surface that extends beyond traditional two-dimensional abstraction. Raised areas of material create subtle relief-like qualities, allowing light and shadow to activate the composition. Layers of earthy browns, muted blues, grays, and warm neutrals merge into an immersive abstract landscape that suggests cosmic movement, geological formations, and organic structures. The title Cosmos evokes the expansive and elemental quality of the composition. Rather than depicting a literal subject, Kontny creates a visual environment built from texture, rhythm, and material experimentation. The work demonstrates the artist’s ability to transform physical materials into an expressive language of abstraction, connecting his paintings to broader movements in Abstract Expressionism, European modernism, and postwar mixed-media art. Born in Poland, Pawel Kontny developed an international artistic background that included architecture, painting, and extensive travel throughout Europe before relocating to the United States. His European training and exposure to modernist movements informed his distinctive approach, which combined abstraction with architectural structure and richly built surfaces. After settling in Colorado, Kontny became an important figure in the region’s modern art community, developing a reputation for his innovative marble-dust technique and expressive abstract compositions. Kontny’s mature works are particularly admired for their tactile quality and their ability to bridge painting and sculpture. His experimental surfaces reflect the broader mid-century fascination with materiality, while his compositions maintain a refined sense of balance and design. Cosmos is an outstanding example of this approach, offering collectors a sophisticated abstract work with both visual impact and historical significance. Presented in its original custom vintage frame, this painting is ideal for collectors of mid-century modern art, textured abstract painting, Abstract Expressionism, European-American modernism, and design-oriented interiors. Its neutral yet complex palette allows it to integrate beautifully into contemporary spaces while retaining the depth and character of a museum-quality modernist work. Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with age. Presented in original vintage frame. Detailed condition report available upon request.
  • Attributed to:
    Pawel Kontny (1923 - 2002, Polish)
  • Creation Year:
    circa 1960-1970
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 24.5 in (62.23 cm)Width: 28.5 in (72.39 cm)Depth: 1.5 in (3.81 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Framing:
    Frame Included
    Framing Options Available
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Denver, CO
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 281461stDibs: LU27316062832

More From This Seller

View All
Ynez Johnston 1985 Abstract Watercolor Gouache Modern Mixed Media Painting

Ynez Johnston 1985 Abstract Watercolor Gouache Modern Mixed Media Painting

By Ynez Johnston

Located in Denver, CO

This original 1985 watercolor and gouache painting by celebrated American modernist Ynez Johnston is a richly layered abstract composition that reflects her highly distinctive visual...

Category

1980s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Watercolor, Gouache

Edward Marecak 1965 Abstract Mixed Media Painting Garden Mid Century Art

Edward Marecak 1965 Abstract Mixed Media Painting Garden Mid Century Art

By Edward Marecak

Located in Denver, CO

Original 1965 abstract mixed media painting titled “The Garden” by American modernist Edward Marecak (1919–1993), a significant figure in the development of mid-century modern art in...

Category

1960s Abstract Mixed Media

Materials

Crayon, Acrylic

You May Also Like

Peinture 24, 1961 - Oil on canvas, 89x116 cm.

Peinture 24, 1961 - Oil on canvas, 89x116 cm.

By Carlos Carnero

Located in Nice, FR

Oil on Canvas by Carlos Carnero. He was friend and pupil of Fernard Léger and friend of the most important artist of his time, such as Picasso and Matisse. This is from his abstract ...

Category

1960s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Materials

Oil

Peinture 5, 1961 - Oil on canvas, 65x92 cm.

Peinture 5, 1961 - Oil on canvas, 65x92 cm.

By Carlos Carnero

Located in Nice, FR

Oil on Canvas by Carlos Carnero. He was friend and pupil of Fernard Léger and friend of the most important artist of his time, such as Picasso and Matisse. This is from his abstract ...

Category

1960s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Materials

Oil

"Nature and Human Relationships – Embrace 3 –” Mixed Media Abstract Painting

"Nature and Human Relationships – Embrace 3 –” Mixed Media Abstract Painting

By Suki Maguire

Located in New York, NY

Unorthodox; yet effective, Suki treats us to a series of works that tantalizes the imagination with bold strokes of dark and light, hinting at shapes both human and ethereal and pull...

Category

2010s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Materials

Linen, Mixed Media

Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting on Canvas, Late 20th Century

Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting on Canvas, Late 20th Century

By Andy Miller

Located in Astoria, NY

Andy Miller (American, b. 1950), Abstract Composition, Oil on Canvas, impasto details, green brown with heavy texture, artist's studio stamp to verso, apparently unsigned, unframed. ...

Category

Late 20th Century Abstract Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Peinture M.19, 1960 - Oil on canvas, 55x77 cm.

Peinture M.19, 1960 - Oil on canvas, 55x77 cm.

By Carlos Carnero

Located in Nice, FR

Oil on Canvas by Carlos Carnero. He was friend and pupil of Fernard Léger and friend of the most important artist of his time, such as Picasso and Matisse. This is from his abstrac...

Category

1960s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Materials

Oil