Etching and aquatint, 1959

Edition : 29/100

Publisher : Berggruen, Paris

Printer : Jean Signovert, Paris

Catalog : [Schneider IV]

35.00 cm. x 27.00 cm. | 13.78 in. x 10.63 in. (image)

67.00 cm. x 57.00 cm. | 26.38 in. x 22.44 in. (frame)

Framed work

This etching and aquatint by Serge Poliakoff (1900-1969) dates from 1959. The composition is divided into three coloured areas.
Poliakoff was an artist of colour, and he perfectly mastered its effects, including the spatial effects induced by the different colours. For example, the grey part seems to be "behind" the black and red parts, forming a kind of background. 
As is often the case with Poliakoff's work, the colours are superimposed, for example, underneath the red, a little black can be seen. The colour is built up in layers and not in flat areas with a single hue.
The textures of the colours are of great importance to the artist. Grey has a rubbed, diluted aspect that brings nuance to the hue. On the contrary, black asserts a greater density.
The three colour ranges are perfectly balanced. The curved shapes alternate with more angular shapes that give energy to the composition. One almost has the impression of seeing a process in progress. It is as if the grey will 'overflow' into the red, or the black will cover the grey.

Handsigned by the artist in pencil
Certificate of authenticity

Ref : LCD4991