This lot consists of an unframed acrylic painting on unstretched canvas, done in the graffiti art style of the modern street artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960-1988). A hand-painted inscription at lower right corner reads, "JMB '85" and is accompanied by a three-pointed crown symbol. Image depicts a variety of loose, abstracted forms. The words "Back of the neck" and "spine" are visible against the stark black background, with a golden spine placed carefully at the center of the composition and crowned by Basquiat's signature crown. A testament to the energy and the raw talent of abstract neo-expressionist Jean-Michel Basquiat. This piece would be a centerpiece of any modern art collectors gallery. Overall this impressive piece measures approximately 16.5" x 21".

Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960-1988) was an influential New York artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent. Basquiat first achieved fame as part of SAMO, an informal graffiti duo who wrote enigmatic epigrams in the cultural hotbed of Manhattan's Lower East Side. It was here, during the late 1970s, that rap, punk, and street art coalesced into early hip-hop culture. By the 1980s, Basquiat's neo-expressionist paintings were being exhibited in galleries and museums internationally.

Basquiat used social commentary as a tool for introspection, and for identifying with his own experiences in the black community. Basquiat also used his platform to bring attention to power structures and systems of racism. Basquiat's visual poetics were acutely political and direct in their criticism of colonialism.

At the age of 27, Jean-Michel Basquiat died of a heroin overdose at his art studio. Almost two decades later, at a Sotheby's auction, a 1982 painting by Basquiat ("Untitled") sold for $110.5 million, setting a new record high for any American artist at auction. Basquiat's life and work has inspired films at theToronto International Film Festival, the Sundance Film Festival, and on American Masters (PBS), and his influence even extends to the music and style of many contemporary artists, including hip hop mogul Jay Z. Jean-Michel Basquiat is a true American legend.
PROVENANCE:
Private Collection

DIMENSIONS:
Unframed approx. 16.5" x 21".


Our December 19th auction includes consignments from both the United States and Overseas. Offering a unique collection of decorative art.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. No additional information regarding provenance will be provided after the auction. 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 the actual authorship is unknown.

Overall good condition. Slight foxing evident on reverse side of canvas. The artwork itself does not show any stains, paint loss, discoloration, or other aesthetic issue. Please refer to photos for further detail.