The screenprint “Marilyn Monroe” by Andy Warhol is one of the most iconic images of international Pop Art. Executed as a colour screenprint on paper, the work belongs to the celebrated series dedicated to the American actress, developed by the artist from the early 1960s onwards. In this case, the print bears edition number 118/250 and a hand-signed pencil signature, confirming its authenticity and its place within the official edition.
From a formal perspective, the image is based on a serial photographic reproduction, reinterpreted through boldly contrasting colour fields. However, despite the mechanical repetition of the subject, each impression presents subtle variations in colour and registration, contributing to the uniqueness of every print. Furthermore, the use of artificial colours accentuates the distance between the public image of the star and her real identity.
Within Warhol’s artistic practice, Marilyn Monroe thus becomes a symbol of modern celebrity, but also of its inherent fragility. Through the screenprinting process, the artist reflects on the relationship between art, consumer culture, and mass media, themes that lie at the very core of his work.
Notes: Colour screenprint on paper, bearing on the reverse edition number 118/250 and the pencil signature “Andy Warhol”, H cm 91.4×91.4.
Publications: Published in Andy Warhol Prints: A Catalogue Raisonné 1962–1987, Feldman/Schellmann, fourth edition revised and expanded by Frayda Feldman and Claudia Defendi, D.A.P. / Distributed Art Publishers, pp. 68–69, no. II.25. Printed by Aetna Silkscreen Products, Inc., New York. Published by Factory Additions, New York.
Provenance: Private Collection, Bologna; Galleria Il Cerchio, Milan.
Hammer Price: € 48.750,00
Auction 65 – December 6th 2023 – Contemporary Art – Design
All the works by Andy Warhol presented at auction
Discover all the top lots from our Modern and Contemporary art auctions!
Do you own a work by Andy Warhol? Request a free valuation right now!
Contact us:
