Description
“Sam Francis’ “Untitled” Plate #3: A Masterpiece in Lithography”
“Untitled” Plate #3 stands as a distinguished, limited-edition lithograph crafted by the celebrated artist Sam Francis. Pencil-signed and numbered, this piece is printed on the finest Rives BFK paper. The artist’s signature and its edition number are in the lower-left corner, accompanied by a notation indicating its status as State #2 designation. Of the total edition size of 100, the initial 40 were labeled as State #1, with the subsequent 60 denoted as State #2. This artwork was printed at Joseph Press in Los Angeles and was published in 1963 by the Pasadena Art Museum. Authenticity is further established with the blind stamp from both the publisher and the printer situated at the bottom corners of the artwork.
Provenance
This artwork, acquired in 2015 from the estate of a distinguished collector, exemplifies meticulous care and preservation.” Each piece at www.markshapirofineart.com is carefully curated, encased in either tissue or plastic sleeves, shipped flat to ensure its pristine condition upon delivery to discerning collectors, and stored in an architectural flat file within a smoke-free environment.
Exploring the World of Sam Francis: An Insightful Overview
Sam Francis, influenced initially by abstract expressionists like Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock, became synonymous with the expressive use of color. His signature “Blue Balls” series from the early 1960s hinted at his personal struggles with renal tuberculosis. Throughout the ’60s, he explored expansive canvases and bold strokes, influenced by his Jungian analysis. By the 1980s, Francis transitioned from structured grids and delved into printmaking, with most pieces produced at his own Santa Monica-based lithography shop. In 1984, he launched The Lapis Press, emphasizing the union of compelling visuals and intriguing texts.
Esteemed Museum Holdings:
- MOMA, Toyama, Japan Wh
- MOMA, NYC
- LA County Museum, Los Angeles, CA
- Konsthall, Malmo, Sweden