Charles Pachter

OC
1942 -
Canadian

Lunar Majestic
acrylic on canvas
on verso signed, titled and dated 1989
60 x 40 in, 152.4 x 101.6 cm

CAD

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Collection of the Artist

LITERATURE
Charles Pachter, interviewed by Heffel, May 2022

Lunar Majestic is perhaps the most iconic example of Charles Pachter’s affectionate satire. He produced his first painting of Queen Elizabeth II when he heard that she was visiting the theatre festival in Stratford, Ontario in 1972. Fascinated that Canada’s head of state does not reside in the country, Pachter visually investigates the post-colonial Canadian psyche, stating that he wished to create “an iconic image that causes viewers to reflect on this special relationship.” He remains true to his solid colour block style, contrasting primary colours and forms to create a painting of the “Monarch of the North” that is quintessentially Canadian. While critics deemed Pachter’s image of the Queen irreverent – if not lightly iconoclastic – the Queen herself delighted in the work, reportedly saying “how amusing!” on their meeting in 2015. This continues to be one of Pachter’s most recognizable subjects, one that he has returned to throughout his career.

Watch Charles Pachter discuss this celebratory auction session here.

All prices are in Canadian Dollars

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