Description:One can only guess these abstracted forms come together to create a magical and surrealist composition derived from the imagination and creativity of Joan Miró. Based on the translation of the title of the poem, this first illustration of Chilean writer, Pablo Neruda’s work appears to be in the shape of a colorful bird, whose plumes of bold reds and blues leap from the sheet. Miró’s characteristic, childlike brushstroke evokes a whimsical sentiment; coupled with his iconic starburst on the left with an anchoring bold black line along the bottom, it is perfectly balanced while being perfectly abstracted to his surrealistic style. Using mainly primary colors, the print radiates a clean and simplistic tone while also integrating a comical twist to our perception of an everyday bird.
Created in 1972, this original color etching & aquatint is one of two illustrations by Joan Miró for Pablo Neruda’s poem, El Sobreviviente Visita Los Pájaros. Hand-signed in pencil by Joan Miró (1893 – 1983) in the lower right margin, this print features a strong and defined plate mark and is printed on Rives wove paper. Printed by Arte Adrien Maeght, Paris and published by Le Vent d’Arles Editeur, Paris.
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that I will enclose with the sale of the work) :
1. Cramer, Patrick. Joan Miró, The Illustrated Books: Catalogue Raisonné, Patrick Cramer: Geneva, 1989. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 157 on pgs. 390-1.
2. Dupin, Jacques. Miró Engraver, Vol. II 1961 – 1973, Daniel Lelong: Paris, 1989. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 560 on pg. 200.
3. Musée d’art moderne de la ville de Paris. Miró, l’œuvre graphique, Fondation Gulbenkian: Lisbon, 1974. Listed and detailed as catalogue raisonné no. 503 on pg. 134.
