Sam Francis, Untitled, 1985

Artist: Sam Francis (1923 - 1994)
Title:Untitled, 1985
Reference:L.I. 59/ SFE-025
Medium:Aquatint
Image Size:9 15/16 x 6 in (25.1 x 15.6 cm)
Sheet Size:17 in x 12 5/16 (43.4 cm x 31.6 cm)
Framed Size:28 1/8 in x 23 7/8 in (71.4 cm x 60.6 cm)
Edition:A unique color trial proof aside from the edition of 30.
Signature:This work is hand-signed by Sam Francis (California, 1923- California, 1994) in pencil in the lower right.
Condition:This work is in excellent condition.
ID #w-5180

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Historical Description

Sam Francis Untitled, 1985 is a dynamic work of organic forms that fills the space it inhabits. Limited to three colors – transparent silver and bronze that overlaps with the thick brushstrokes of black - the piece possesses incredible depth that is created by the energetic layering of the two pigments through various splashes, drips, and swoops. The viewer gets the sense of observing only a slice of a much greater universe of color and motion as the various forms disappear off the edges of the sheet. Francis was always experimenting with color, and in his prints he chose each color carefully, making this composition particularly rare in his oeuvre, as it is not done in his characteristic bright colors of red, blue, or yellow. Instead we find muted shades of black and brown taking the shape of a worm-like creature. Seeming to move about the paper, the image is full of life and free from any constraints.

Created in 1985, this work is an aquatint that is hand-signed by Sam Francis (California, 1923- California, 1994) in pencil in the lower right and is a unique color trial proof aside from the edition of 30.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Sam Francis Untitled, 1985 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the sale of the work).

  1. Lembark, Connie. The Prints of Sam Francis Catalogue Raisonné Vol II 1960-1990. New York: Hudson Hills Press, 1992. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 59/ SFE-025 on pg. 70 and 71.
  2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:
Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Sam Francis Untitled, 1985 is presented in a complementary moulding and optical grade Plexiglas.

Subject Matter: Classic Under $15k Contemporary