This lot consists of a mixed media (ink and watercolor) illustration on paper, done in the Pop Art style of Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987). This modern art image depicts a seated red cat with black stripes and green eyes. Very similar to the cats depicted in Warhol's 1954 collection of lithographs entitled, "25 Cats Named Sam and One Blue Pussy". A hand inscription to the right of the feline figure reads, "Sam", with a cursive inscription at lower right: "Andy Warhol". A fine addition to any collector's gallery.

This unframed piece measures approximately 11.75" x 8.25".

Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987) was a leader of contemporary art, which solidified the way that we now visualize the mid-century American era, its faces, and its mass culture. Warhol was a producer, director, printmaker, and illustrator who hailed from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. From his beginnings in the commercial art world, Warhol held a firm grasp of popular image and advertising power. By the time of his death in 1987, Warhol's name would become synonymous with the Banana Factory, Studio 54, Campbell's Tomato Soup, and, most succinctly, Pop Art.

His "society portraits", especially, held all the cultural poignancy of Pop Art, but offered a touchingly human element. Warhol chose bold, often recognizable images of celebrity icons, and elevated these portraits to a truly personal level (most of his celebrity subjects were, in fact, friends).

More than just an homage to cheap fame, Warhol's society portraits were bold visions of biography. Fame was not the end-all-be-all for Warhol. Through his own words and through his work in portraiture, it could be argued that celebrity was simply Warhol's means for reverence. This is encapsulated in one of Andy Warhol's most quoted phrases, "In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes."

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection

DIMENSIONS:
Unframed approx. 11.75" x 8.25".

Finger Lakes Estate and Auction Company has been commissioned to liquidate several private collections of fine art. The pieces in this auction came from established collectors both in the United States and Europe.

Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in the catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

In the style of [Artist Name]: The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Please use photos as part of the description. The absence of condition report does not guarantee excellent condition. Please contact us for an in-hand evaluation or for additional photos.

Overall good condition. Minimal toning has occurred over time. Artwork itself remains vibrant and clear. Please examine photos for further reference.