The Vault Auction
Lot 823:
Measurement: 20”x24” (unframed) The painting will be shipped unframed and shipping will be delayed by approximately 10 days. This is an original acrylic on canvas painting, In the manner/style of the world-renowned contemporary artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat. The artwork is exemplary of his unique style. The art is signatured on the front and also identifiable on the verso (back of the canvas). Basquiat signed his art in different ways and sometimes multiple times on the same artwork. His three-point crown is a recognized symbol of his signature and his earlier artwork is also identified by the word SAMO. He often used only his initials as his signature and sometimes used his full name on the front of his art and his initials on the verso. The crown is typically seen on many pieces of his artwork, front and/or verso of the art, as seen on the artwork in this Intervendue auction. The verso of Basquiat’s artwork is often itself unique. He was one of very few famous artists who painted on the verso and considered the entire canvas an expression of his artistry. He loved professional boxing, comic action superheroes such as Superman, Batman and Thor who were favorite themes he used in many of his earlier paintings. As noted by the consignor, “Basquiat artwork, whether it’s in the manner of, in style of, as is, etc., since artwork by an artist like Basquiat would have to undergo an actual authentication process (typically very expensive) in order to claim authenticity, like so many collectors of fine art, I’ll continue to collect and enjoy Basquiat’s special style and creative artistry. I’ve collected art in the manner/style of renowned artists for over 35 years, and all of them have proven either successful investments or remain on my walls for pure enjoyment. Even the kids love his art.” Basquiat’s career started in his late teens and by the time he was in his early twenties, his art was already featured in art shows in Italy. However, it was in 1981 that Basquiat was featured at the Annina Hosei Gallery in New York City. He had many shows at the Hosei Gallery from the early 80s to the mid 80s, some with other artists such as Keith Haring. Jean-Michel’s early works in particular, depicted his amazing intelligence displaying what he called the dichotomies of life. Basquiat was largely responsible for elevating graffiti into the realm of the New York art world. Tangled patches of color, symbolic images and scribbled words, referenced everything from his heritage, to political issues, pop-culture icons, and even Biblical verse. Provenance: Private Physician’s estate. Bid with confidence on this extraordinary, highly collectible and wonderful example of neo-expressionism, in the manner of Basquiat. This is a superb piece to add to any serious fine art collection.
Condition: Good
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