readymade

(noun)

The readymades of Marcel Duchamp are ordinary manufactured objects that the artist selected and modified as an antidote to what he called "retinal art". By simply choosing the object (or objects) and repositioning, joining, titling and signing it, the object became art.

Related Terms

Examples of readymade in the following topics:

  • Sculpture

    • Marcel Duchamp originated use of the "found object" (French: objet trouvĂ©) or "readymade" with such pieces as Fountain (1917).

  • Assemblage

    • The most recognizable assemblage pieces from this period are the readymades of Marcel Duchamp, such as Fountain, 1917.
    • Readymades were found-objects which Duchamp chose and presented as art.

  • Abstract Sculpture

    • He originated the use of the "found object" or "readymade" with pieces like Fountain (1917), a urinal that was displayed as art.
    • Duchamp experimented a great deal with sculpture, creating readymades, assemblages and kinetic works.

  • Dada and Surrealism

    • During this time, Duchamp began exhibiting "readymades" (everyday objects found or purchased and declared art) and was active in the Society of Independent Artists.