Bonhams & Butterfields will offer Fine Prints on November 3, 2009. The auction, simulcast between the San Francisco and Los Angeles salesrooms, will feature a diverse selection of old master, modern, contemporary prints and multiples ranging from the Renaissance to the Present.
Edward Ruscha (American, born 1937), Standard Station (E. 5), 1966. Screenprint in colors on commercial buff paper, signed in pencil, dated and numbered 33/50 (there were also 2 artist’s proofs), published by Audrey Sabol, Villanova, Pennsylvania, printed by Art Krebs, Los Angeles. 19 3/4 x 37in. sheet 25 5/8 x 40in. Est. $30,000-40,000. Courtesy of Bonhams & Butterfields
Highlighting the fall offering is an important mid-century screenprint by American Artist Edward Ruscha. Titled Standard Station (E. 5), 1966, the work depicts an iconic 1960s-style Standard Oil gas station set in the bright hues of red, orange and blue. Ruscha’s distinct technique can be seen throughout the work in the bold use of color, dramatic angles and textual, flat Pop Art style.
“Ruscha creates a visual language for the viewer with his use of stark shapes in both the positive and negative spaces within Standard Station. This creates a dramatic impact which can be seen in all facets of the work including the roof of the station, gas pumps and sky. Bonhams & Butterfields is pleased to offer such an iconic piece of American vernacular history,” said Judith Eurich, Director, Fine Prints San Francisco.
Estimated to bring $30,000-40,000, the work is printed on commercial buff paper, signed in pencil, dated and numbered 33/50. Standard Station was published by Audrey Sabol, Villanova, Pennsylvania and printed by Art Krebs, Los Angeles, California.
Additional highlights for the November auction of Fine Prints will be announced in early fall.
