Untitled 1 (Free South Africa) (Littmann P. 42) by Keith Haring depicts a powerful scene of violence and resistance, created as part of his politically charged Free South Africa portfolio.

The works shows a tall black figure chained by a snake like figure that appears to be eating or consuming a small white figure. The work is anchored by Haring's characteristic use of line and symbol—bold black outlines, radiating motion lines, and a medical cross positioned in the upper right corner. The stark contrast between the black silhouette and white background intensifies the drama, while the orange radiating lines and border frame the scene in warm, urgent colour. Below, a pattern of black dots creates a textured ground plane that grounds the action.

This work was made as Haring became increasingly engaged with anti-apartheid activism, coinciding with widespread international protests against South Africa's racial segregation policies. The Free South Africa series represents one of his most direct political statements, produced as cultural figures worldwide mobilised against apartheid through art, music, and public demonstration.

The work's boldness reflects his background in street practice and his commitment to imagery that could communicate across cultural boundaries. The lithograph's vivid orange accents against the monochromatic figures create a sense of urgency that reinforces the work's political message. Through this direct approach, Keith Haring turned printmaking into a vehicle for international solidarity, with Untitled 1 functioning as both artistic statement and call to action during one of the most critical periods in South Africa's struggle for freedom.

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