Prints

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Lot 135
  • 135

László Moholy-Nagy

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
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Description

  • László Moholy-Nagy
  • [Composition]
  • lithograph
  • sheet 455 by 606 mm 17 7/8 by 23 7/8 in
Lithograph printed in colors, circa 1950, initialed in pencil, on heavy buff wove paper, framed

Provenance

László Moholy-Nagy was an artist of many media – over time he was known for his photography, painting, sculpture, typography, printmaking and design. He was a professor at the Bauhaus and a believer in constructivism, an approach towards art and architecture which saw social influence in these practices, dismissing the concept of "art for art's sake"

This rare lithograph was a gift from the artist to his protogé Robert Brownjohn (known as BJ), who studied closely with Moholy-Nagy at the Institute of Design in Chicago, looked up to him as a father figure and lived in his home while a student at the institute. Brownjohn went on to a distinguished career in graphic design which included creating title sequences for the James Bond movies From Russia with Love and Goldfinger as well as the cover art for the Rolling Stones album Let it Bleed.

Upon his untimely death in 1970, his art collection including the present work was bequeathed to the current owner.

Condition

The print is in good condition overall. There is water staining along the lower sheet edge. Additional discoloration comprises overall darkening of the paper tone, oxidized fingerprints and a few pale stains. There is a small (c. 1/2 inch) paper loss adjacent to the hinge at upper right. A few minor skinned spots are visible on the reverse.
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.