Robert Rauschenberg (American, 1925-2008). "Why You Can Tell II" (1979). Screenprint in colors on wove paper. Hand signed, numbered 73/100, and dated in pencil on lower left. Published by Multiples, New York and Printed by Styria Studio, New York. With the blind stamp of the printer at lower left corner. A hand-signed, colorful Robert Rauschenberg screenprint with offset lithograph and collage entitled "Why You Can Tell II" from the suite "Nine Prints" featuring images of collaged photographs that Rauschenberg selected from books and magazines that bring disparate eras, cultures, and meanings together, set in an attractive, custom frame. Size of sheet: 30.4" L x 23" W (77.2 cm x 58.4 cm) Size of frame: 35.75" L x 27.875" W (90.8 cm x 70.8 cm)

Born in Port Arthur, Texas, Robert Rauschenberg studied at Black Mountain College where he was exposed to exciting artists such as Josef Albers and John Cage. Early on in his career, his Black Paintings and White Paintings justifiably earned the attention of the New York art scene. In addition, Rauschenberg met Jasper Johns who would be an important personal and professional influence; their relationship has been described as "one of the greatest love stories in modern art" (Duncan Ballantyne-Way "The Relationship Between Jasper Johns & Robert Rauschenberg" in "fineartmultiple" 2017).

Rauschenberg created memorable artworks for six decades. A master from the Pop Art era, he explored an eclectic array of materials and experimented with various techniques. Perhaps best known for his "Combines" - three dimensional sculptural collages that he created from seemingly ordinary found objects and discarded materials like tires, umbrellas, sheet metal, and newspapers - as well as vibrant silkscreen paintings which he first screen-printed, then painted over, and collaged photographs from books and magazines.

Rauschenberg was the first American to win the Golden Lion award at the Venice Biennale in 1964. From there, he went on to have solo exhibitions at the Guggenheim, Tate Modern, Centre Pompidou, and Moderna Museet, among other elite institutions. His art may be found in collections throughout the globe and has sold for tens of millions at auction; his high auction record is $88.8 million at Christie's in 2019.

Several important museums including the Museum of Modern Art in New York have collected "Why You Can Tell II".

Provenance: ex-Nancy and Dr. E.F. Simpson collection, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from 1970 to 2000

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#171890

This screenprint has not been examined outside the frame but appears to be in excellent condition. It is hand signed, numbered 73/100, and dated in pencil on lower left. There is a Styria Studio (printer) blind stamp at the lower left corner. Frame is excellent save some stains on lower end. Fitted with suspension wire and ready to display.