Andy Warhol

Estate of Andy Warhol
The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc., New York
Acquired by the present owner from the above

These works are in very good condition. There is evidence of light wear and light rubbing at the corners of the paintings. There is a small unobtrusive protrusion with associated rubbing at the bottom right corner of VFPA45.089. All other surface nuances and inconsistencies appear inherent and consistent with the working method of the artist.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In 1977, Andy Warhol began a series of stylish and abstract Oxidation Paintings, which marked a significant departure from his distinctive Pop imagery. In this series, he expanded his artistic horizon by creating abstract and iridescent canvases bathed in metallic hues. In order to create these works, Warhol enlisted willing collaborators to come to the Factory in order to urinate on canvases primed in copper paint. The uric acid would oxidize the metal in the copper ground, causing it to stain and the discoloration provided for unique patterns to form according to the way in which the urine was released onto the canvas.

A terrific departure from any previous artistic process for Warhol, these oxidation paintings parallel the creative impetus behind that of Jackson Pollock's drip paintings physically penetrating the canvas and leaving a fantastically expressive and energetic abstraction.  Although the inspiration of these paintings is up for debate, there is no question one feels the primordial energy in both the composition and vigor within each individual work. Notwithstanding the process, the end results of these canvases exhibit extraordinary beauty and encapsulate Warhol's search for a new aesthetic beyond his famed silk-screens.