Motherwell, Robert "Untitled (Blue Open)" Limited Edition Print Lithograph 1968
Size
15 x 11 in
Framed Size
17 x 13 in
Hand Signed
Edition #
AP
Certificate of Authenticity
Original Bill of Sale
Framed with Plexiglass
Provenance & Extra Info
This print represents Motherwell's first use of the "Open" motif. In this print Motherwell employs a nearly flat blue color ground. The expressiveness of the print comes from how the paper takes the ink as well as the conte crayon-like jagged line effect of the U shaped black lines. Motherwell would later contend that these lines were every bit as "gestural" as his "Beside the Sea" prints and paintings. It is an Artist Proof, printed with margins, measuring 15"x11" ; it is signed in pencil on the lower right RM with the date '68. On the lower left it is designated an Artist Proof in pencil, in Motherwell's hand, in French "Epreuve d'Artiste." Publisher was Editions Georges Fall (Paris) and it is printed on Rives BFK paper. The print is floated in the frame, and the paper has a beautiful deckled edge. Literature: Engberg/Banach Catalogue Raisonne #58. The piece is handsomely framed in a very heavy duty, contemporary solid maple wood frame with a gessoed matt black finish, recessed and floated.
