Francis Bacon 　　Three Studies for a Portrait of John Edwards

Technique Color photolithograph on cardboard (triptych) Year of Production 1980 Signature Each work is signed, titled, dated, and numbered by the artist in felt-tip pen on the reverse. Sheet Size 29.7 × 26.7 cm (each work) Image Size 29.7 × 26.7 cm (each work) Framed Size 130.0 × 67.5 cm Condition Maintained in excellent original condition About the Artwork Three Studies for a Portrait of John Edwards is an extremely rare triptych born from the special friendship between Francis Bacon and John Edwards. John Edwards was Bacon's most trusted friend and an important presence who supported him in his later years, from the 1980s onwards. After the death of the painter's lover, George Dyer, Edwards became a spiritual anchor and posed for many portraits. The deep trust between the two is evident from the fact that Bacon, upon his death, entrusted Edwards with his estate and the management of his London studio. This work is not a print produced for the general market, but a special piece created and gifted by Bacon to Edwards himself. Only three sets are known to exist, and no commercial edition was ever released. In this regard, the work differs in nature from typical print works and holds extremely significant value as a historical document that tells the story of the personal relationship between the artist and his model. The triptych format was Bacon's preferred mode of expression. While each of the three canvases stands independently, together they depict the presence of one person through changes in time and psychology. Through glances, expressions, and subtle shifts in color, a strong sense of movement and tension is created within a static portrait, conveying profound spirituality to the viewer. In this work, Bacon's characteristic distorted figures are used. However, this distortion is not intended to exaggerate the person, but rather to depict the vitality, emotion, and essence of human existence that cannot be expressed through photography. The simple background and bold color planes further accentuate the figure's presence, creating a quiet yet tense atmosphere. The provenance is also extremely important. This work was owned by John Edwards himself, then passed down to his family, and subsequently, after being part of a private collection in London, was exhibited at Christie's London, thus possessing impeccable provenance. This is a crucial element that authenticates the work's genuineness and historical value, making it highly appealing to collectors worldwide.