This lot consists of an acrylic painting on board. Done in the free-form abstract style of Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960-1988). Rich with narrative imagery and explosions of color, the viewer quickly becomes absorbed in the artist's expressive work. A testament to the vibrancy and raw talent associated with the elusive 20th century painter, Jean-Michel Basquiat. A central, skeletal figure with a three-pointed crown grimaces amidst a flush of color and line. Words like "Samo" and "Back View" glow against a dark, black background. This piece would be a prepossessing highlight to any collection of art. Overall, this unframed piece measures approximately 12" x 8".

Reverse side of piece reveals an affixed paper label, which reads as follows:

"Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat. The copyright of this work is owned by the Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat, and this work may not be reproduced without the Estate's copyright."

Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960-1988) was an influential New York artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent. Basquiat first achieved fame as part of SAMO, an informal graffiti duo who wrote enigmatic epigrams in the cultural hotbed of Manhattan's Lower East Side. It was here, during the late 1970s, that rap, punk, and street art coalesced into early hip-hop culture. By the 1980s, Basquiat's neo-expressionist paintings were being exhibited in galleries and museums internationally.

Basquiat used social commentary as a tool for introspection, and for identifying with his own experiences in the black community. Basquiat also used his platform to bring attention to power structures and systems of racism. Basquiat's visual poetics were acutely political and direct in their criticism of colonialism.

At the age of 27, Jean-Michel Basquiat died of a heroin overdose at his art studio. Almost two decades later, at a Sotheby's auction, a 1982 painting by Basquiat ("Untitled") sold for $110.5 million, setting a new record high for any American artist at auction. Basquiat's life and work has inspired films at theToronto International Film Festival, the Sundance Film Festival, and on American Masters (PBS), and his influence even extends to the music and style of many contemporary artists, including hip hop mogul Jay Z. Jean-Michel Basquiat is a true American legend.
PROVENANCE:
Private Collection

DIMENSIONS:
Unframed approx. 12" x 8".


Our August 22nd auction includes consignments from both the United States and Overseas. A fine offering of Modern Art.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. No additional information regarding provenance will be provided after the auction. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall fair condition. Reverse side of piece shows light water damage. The artwork itself is completely intact. Please review photos for further detail.