Mario Avati (French, 1921-2009), Papillon et chardon, 1961 Aquatint
Mario Avati (French, born Monaco, 1921–2009) was a painter and printmaker active in Paris and best known for his mastery of mezzotint, a demanding intaglio process highlighting shape and light. Avati became one of the major modern practitioners of the medium, often using still-life subjects, eggs, fruit, shells, objects, and dark staged interiors to create quiet, surreal compositions. His work is represented in major print collections including the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
Papillon et chardon, 1961, is an aquatint in black ink on cream wove paper. The square composition shows a butterfly with patterned wings suspended against a horizontally striated black field, approaching a thistle-like flower connected by a long, slender stem. Inscribed in pencil “ESSAI 9/9” lower left, titled “PAPILLON ET CHARDON” lower center, and signed “AVATI” lower right. The inscription identifies this as the ninth of nine trial impressions, separate from the regular edition of 100 documented for the work. Sheet measures approximately 14.875 × 18.875 inches; image measures approximately 10.75 × 10.75 inches. Condition shows light age toning with a faint prior mat line and a few minor handling marks, primarily visible on the verso; image presents well. Provenance of Martin and Enid Gleich.
Condition
Please review the photos for a complete understanding of condition.
Dimensions
14.875 x 18.875 in
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
Mario Avati (French, born Monaco, 1921–2009) was a painter and printmaker active in Paris and best known for his mastery of mezzotint, a demanding intaglio process highlighting shape and light. Avati became one of the major modern practitioners of the medium, often using still-life subjects, eggs, fruit, shells, objects, and dark staged interiors to create quiet, surreal compositions. His work is represented in major print collections including the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
Papillon et chardon, 1961, is an aquatint in black ink on cream wove paper. The square composition shows a butterfly with patterned wings suspended against a horizontally striated black field, approaching a thistle-like flower connected by a long, slender stem. Inscribed in pencil “ESSAI 9/9” lower left, titled “PAPILLON ET CHARDON” lower center, and signed “AVATI” lower right. The inscription identifies this as the ninth of nine trial impressions, separate from the regular edition of 100 documented for the work. Sheet measures approximately 14.875 × 18.875 inches; image measures approximately 10.75 × 10.75 inches. Condition shows light age toning with a faint prior mat line and a few minor handling marks, primarily visible on the verso; image presents well. Provenance of Martin and Enid Gleich.
Condition
Please review the photos for a complete understanding of condition.
Dimensions
14.875 x 18.875 in
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
