ANDY WARHOL "PORTRAIT (GEORGE)" DRAWING, 1956

Andy Warhol (1928-1987) is arguably the most important American artist of the 20th century. He not only defined Pop Art but had an unrivalled influence on artists and image-making. In recent years there has been new scholarship and increasing commercial interest in Andy Warhol's early works, material created prior to Pop Art. During the 1950's Warhol established himself in New York City as a trendy illustrator contributing to a wide number of fashion publications and retailers. His simple line drawings were modern and gentle, with a subtle but unmistakably gay touch. In a short period of time, he created an aesthetic that was both versatile and distinctively his. Like the consummate artist that he was, Warhol was frequently drawing. The images he created during this era, independent from his fashion commissions, were romantic, hopeful and unabashedly gay. It is worth emphasizing that Warhol was almost exclusively dedicated to drawing during this era, only creating a handful of paintings - which were intended to be used for window displays. Taschen, the legendary art book publisher, recently released the book Andy Warhol: Love, Sex and Desire 1950-1962 which celebrates his drawings of the male form from the pre-Pop era. This drawing appears on page 58. This portrait is a paradigm of Warhol's mastery of line and visionary framing. A reclining man with his hands behind his head looks forward with a soft gaze. With the lightest touch, Warhol masterly portrays this male ideal with the details of his relaxed pose and timeless elegance. Unique to this work is the man's upper lip, condensed with ink, a distinct deviation from Warhol's aesthetic that typically consists of contour lines. This drawing serves as an example of Warhol's expertise as a draftsman. As the Warhol market continues to gallop to a stratosphere beyond, there are fewer and fewer examples of unique, original works in circulation. Questions about this piece? Contact us, call +1.416.704.1720, or visit our Toronto Gallery. Untitled "Portrait of a Man (George)" USA, circa 1950s Black ballpoint pen on manila paper Stamped on verso by the Estate of Andy Warhol and the Andy Warhol Art Authentication Board, Inc. 16.25"H 13.75"W (work) 23.5"H 20.75"W (framed) Waviness in the side margins. Overall very good condition. Provenance: The Estate of Andy Warhol