What is the alternative title of Jackson Pollock's 'Number 11, 1952'?

Jackson Pollock’s “Number 11, 1952” is alternatively titled Blue Poles.

The large abstract painting was originally identified by a number, reflecting Pollock’s practice during this period of avoiding descriptive titles. The title Blue Poles became associated with the work later, referring to the prominent blue vertical forms that interrupt its dense web of dripped, poured, and splattered paint.

Pollock created the painting in 1952 using enamel and aluminum paint on canvas, with pieces of glass embedded in the surface. Its scale and layered technique make it a particularly striking example of his mature Abstract Expressionist method.

Readers often confuse Blue Poles with other numbered Pollock paintings that later acquired popular names. Number 31, 1950 remains known by its number, while Number 10, 1952 is also called Convergence. Blue Poles was purchased by Australia’s National Gallery in 1973, after a highly publicized controversy over its price.