Rafael Ferrer (Puerto Rican, b. 1933) "Mercado" - color lithograph, ca. 1991 to 1992. Signed "R. Ferrer" on the lower right. Title "Mercado" handwritten on lower center. An impressively large and vibrant limited edition lithograph by contemporary Puerto Rican artist Raphael Ferrer, depicting a lovely vendor dressed in yellow tending to fresh produce at an outdoor market while a male bystander, perhaps a potential customer or a special friend, gazes at her below the brim of his cap. All is delineated with Ferrer's signature brilliant color palette designed to conjure the tropical landscape of his native land. The fruits and vegetables - including plantains, guavas and more - will certainly resonate with anyone who has spent time in the Caribbean. Adding a bit of humor, Ferrer has also marked a row of bottles behind the vendor with his initials. A stunning tribute to his culture, perhaps hinting at a romantic narrative as well. Size: 44.5" W x 30.125" H (113 cm x 76.5 cm); 54.125" W x 39.75" H (137.5 cm x 101 cm) framed

Rafael Ferrer's oeuvre is quite diverse as he has mastered so many media ranging from Process Art installations to figurative paintings, lithographs, and assemblages. According to Ferrer, the motivation for this variety originates in his experience with improvisation as a musician. In his own words, "My earlier life as a musician created in my psyche a sense that what you do is dictated by the needs of the moment, all within a repertoire…It’s not about repetition, but it’s about the challenge of the moment." Ferrer's works may be found in esteemed public collections, including The Baltimore Museum of Art, The Denver Museum of Art, The Metropolitan Museum, The Museum of Modern Art, and The Whitney Museum of American Art.

Provenance: private Lewis collection, Florida, USA, purchased from Metropolitan Museum of Art gift shop lithograph section

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#160760

Hand-signed "R. Ferrer" on the lower right. Title "Mercado" handwritten on lower center. Crease mark to upper center and lower right. Surface scratch (tear does not penetrate the paper) to vendor's yellow garment. A few scuffs/chips to frame. Minor tears to gallery paper on verso. Otherwise lithograph and framing are very nice. Wired for suspension.