Complete set of eight color lithographs on BFK Rives, one color lithograph on Shirikawa rice paper mounted on a hanging silk scroll, three color lithographs on Kochi rice paper mounted on a folding screen, and an original gouache painting on paper
USA, 1963
Sam Francis (1923-1994) – American abstract painter and printmaker
Each lithograph signed in pencil lower margin ‘Sam Francis’
Each lithograph numbered in pencil lower margin ‘13/100’
Various printers, with respective blind stamp on each
Published by the Pasadena Museum of California Art with blind stamp on each
With original acrylic box, justification page, and original poem stamped with Doc Irving Group seal
Lembark L59
Full sheets printed, set of 8 lithographs with deckled edges
Painting dimensions: 4 x 5 ½ in. (10.2 x 14 cm.)
Frame dimensions: 8 ¼ x 10 ¼ x 1 ¼ in. (21 x 26 x 3.2 cm.)
Folding screen dimensions, each: 15 ½ x 22 ½ in. (39.4 x 51.2 cm.)
Screen dimensions, overall: 15 ½ x 67 ½ in. (39.4 x 171.5 cm.)
Various dimensions, group of 8, the largest measuring 23 ½ x 15 ¾ in. (59.7 x 40 cm.)
Scroll dimensions: 31 x 18 ¾ in. (78.7 x 47.6 cm.)
Estimate $20,000-$30,000

It is extremely rare to find a full set of this important early graphic work by Sam Francis which includes an original gouache. In addition to being a dynamic tour-de-force of Sam Francis’s practice as a printmaker and colorist, “The Pasadena Box” demonstrates the artist’s interest in Japanese calligraphy. Influenced greatly by Abstract Expressionism and French Impressionism, the interplay of negative space and bursts of color can also be attributed to his study of Japanese calligraphy during his frequent visits home in Japan. Highlighting this influence is Francis’ use of ground, namely the handing silk scroll and folding screen, in addition to the more traditional wove papers and gouache. Published by the Pasadena Museum of California Art – near Francis’ native home where he spent the end of his life – this suite captures the integrity of one of California’s most prominent artists of the 20th century.

Executed in 1963, this complete set of eight color lithographs on BFK Rives, one color lithograph on Shirikawa rice paper mounted on a hanging silk scroll, three color lithographs on Kochi rice paper mounted on a folding screen are each signed and numbered thirteen from an edition of one hundred. With an original gouache, original acrylic box, justification page, and original poem stamped with Doc Irving Group seal, the full sheets are printed. The prints have various dimensions and are all in overall good condition with no evidence of tears, toning, stains or repairs. Please note the acrylic box has been cracked on one side and bears remains of tape.

Sam Francis (American, 1923-1994)

California-born abstract expressionist painter Sam Francis, is regarded as one of the 20th century’s leading interpreters of color and light. His first works were influenced by the Abstract Expressionism of Mark Rothko, Arshile Gorky, and Clyfford Still, but he quickly developed his own colorful abstract style after moving to Paris in 1950. In addition to New York abstract expressionism, his work holds references to color field painting, Chinese and Japanese art, French impressionism, and his own California roots. Throughout a long and prolific career, Francis created thousands of paintings as well as works on paper, prints, and monotypes

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