Joán Miró

The very rare complete set of one lithograph printed in black and eight colour variants, seven with extensive hand-colouring in black ink, black crayon and red gouache, 1968, each signed in pencil, this copy signed and numbered 14 on the justification page, the total edition recorded by Cramer is 115, printed by Mourlot, Paris, published by Poligrafia, Barcelona, on japon nacré paper, with text, title-page and justification as published, loose in original orange cloth protective boards and slipcase, each with printing in black on front and back

With full margins, the colours fresh, occasional soft handling creases olong the edges otherwise in generally very good condition
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The complete portfolio of hand coloured variants is of the utmost rarity, with no obtainable record of it having appeared at auction in its entirety. Consisting of seven extensively handcoloured lithographs the present works with their exuberant black brushstrokes, bold lines and striking colours are wonderful examples of the joyful, childlike abstraction which Miro aspired to in the late 1960s. Abandoning a more realistic and figurative approach, Miro had developed a highly personalized vocabulary as demonstrated here, with each variant a result of active and ongoing improvisation that renders a precise interpretation impossible. Each work is imbued with great energy and movement overlaying different interpretations and applying different meanings to the starting point provided by the colour lithograph.