Sam Francis, Untitled, 1985

Artist: Sam Francis (1923 - 1994)
Title:Untitled, 1985
Medium:Monotype with oil paint, powdered pigment and ink in colors on wove paper
Image Size:18 in x 23 in (45.7 cm x 58.4 cm)
Sheet Size:18 in x 23 in (45.7 cm x 58.4 cm)
Framed Size:30 1/2 in x 34 5/8 in (77.5 cm x 87.9 cm)
Edition:This is a unique work and original work.
Signature:This work is hand signed by Sam Francis (San Mateo, 1923- Santa Monica, 1994) in pencil in the lower right.
Condition:This work is in excellent condition.
ID #W-6007

Historical Description

In typical fashion, Sam Francis Untitled, 1985 is an exciting burst of colors, shapes and movements that lead the eye around the page in an intricate dance. Abstract fields of deep blues, a leafy green, black, and sunny yellow infiltrate a white space. They contain dimensions within themselves with curved edges and varying hues that give the color planes complexity. The colors overlay one another like collage elements, adding a depth to the monotype. On top of this layer, lines of dripped color zing around the composition. This way and that, the thin lines zag across the paper, often terminating in pools of colors. The different types of paint used to create this monotype also add exciting texture to the work. Some of the shapes carry more painterly textures, showing brushstrokes, while others have a more watery appearance. The dry pigment results in patches of fuzzy color that look almost soft to the touch. Such details show the care that Francis put into every work, and also make Untitled, 1985 a new and exciting piece to return to again and again. Though it has an overwhelmingly cool palate dominated by blues and greens, bright patches of yellow, red, and pink stand out like beacons, calling us in. They create emotional focal points in the monotype that draw the viewer forward for more examination.

Created in 1985, this monotype with oil paint, powdered pigment and ink in colors on wove paper is hand signed by Sam Francis (San Mateo, 1923- Santa Monica, 1994) in pencil in the lower right. A unique and original work.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

1. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:

Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Sam Francis Untitled, 1985 presented in a complementary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.