The work “Sughero” (1968–69) by Roberto Crippa is an elegant abstract composition in which the artist explores the material potential of cork and collage. This phase of his production marks a significant transformation: Crippa gradually shifted his research from the geometric spatiality of his early works toward a more tactile, layered materiality charged with visual tension.
Born in Monza in 1921 and deceased in Bresso in 1972, Crippa was one of the leading figures of the Italian post-war art scene. After joining the Spatialist movement and working in close dialogue with the research of Lucio Fontana, he developed a highly personal artistic language. It was oriented toward mixed-media solutions capable of integrating wood, cork, paper, and pigment into works of strong visual presence.
In “Sughero”, the surface appears as a dynamic field animated by geometric forms, perspectival cuts, and chromatic overlays. Cork, a living and porous material, is not merely a support but becomes a true expressive language: its texture introduces depth, rhythm, and a physical quality that is immediately perceptible.
Furthermore, the internal markings and concentric forms suggest spirals, vortices, and rotational movements, recalling one of the central themes of Crippa’s research: the energy of space. The result is a composition in which matter, colour, and movement coexist in balance, effectively conveying the artist’s most experimental and mature phase.
Description: Mixed media and collage on panel, bearing on the back the stamp and label of Galleria d’Arte Bergamo – Bergamo, the stamp of Galleria d’Arte L’Isola – Cesenatico, and an Arte Fiera 2000 – Bologna label. H cm 91×73 – with frame H cm 112.5×93.5.
Notes: The work “Sughero” is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity on photograph signed by Roberto Crippa Jr., with ADN archive number DE, dated 13/10/1996; and a Certificate of Authenticity on photograph issued by Galleria d’Arte Bergamo and signed by Corrado Rota.
Provenance: Galleria d’Arte Bergamo – Bergamo; Galleria d’Arte L’Isola – Cesenatico; Important Private Collection – Bologna.
Hammer Price: € 3.000,00
Auction 86 – September, 4th, 2025 – Modern and Contemporary Art
All works by Roberto Crippa presented at auction
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