Raymond Moretti (1931-2005)
Untitled (Musicians on stage)
1960
Mixed media on paper
Signed and dated lower right
29 x 42 in / 73,6 x 106,7 cm
Framed: 30.5 x 43.5 in / 77,5 x 110.5 cm

Provenance:
Private Collection
By descent to current owner

Moretti gained acclaim for his dynamic and abstract works at a young age, establishing a career creating lithographs for posters, magazines, and stamps. Drawing from his Jewish heritage, he utilized the Hebrew alphabet, incorporating the letters into line and color. This method created expressive scenes that toed the line of abstraction. Moretti had a deep love of jazz, going on to paint and draw many famous musicians including Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. He even went on to illustrate covers for jazz LPs called Moretti Verve.

This Untitled piece by Moretti is an exceptional example of both the form and subject matter that brought him acclaim. The energy of the musicians is apparent through the repeated lines, no doubt inspired by his love of the music genre. Throughout the piece, the jazz musicians are created in the image of the Hebrew letter Lamed, bent over as they play their horns and pound on a piano.

Condition/Comment: Some rippling in paper along edges

This is an online only sale. Items may be viewed upon appointment in New York City.

Notice to bidders: More detailed condition reports and additional photographs are available by request. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in excellent condition. Please message us through the online bidding platform or call Guernsey's at 212-794-2280 to request a more thorough condition report. Notwithstanding any condition report or discussion concerning a lot, all lots are offered and sold “as is” in accordance with the condition of sale.