Andy Warhol Muhammad Ali Fist, 1978. Focusing on Muhammad Ali's most prized asset, Andy Warhol depicts Muhammad Ali's powerful fist, held up as if ready to strike. Placing his subject against a vibrant blue background, Warhol highlights the fist by illuminating it in a rich reddish brown hue reminiscent of the color of dried blood, as if implying the damage that this dangerous weapon can bring to the arena. Not only this, but the reddish cloud encompasses the fist just as a boxing glove does. This work relays a message of strength and dominance, as if Muhammad Ali's blow could strike the viewer at any moment. Warhol cleverly recognizes that, although Muhammad Ali's face is iconic in its own right, his fist is the true superstar.

Created in 1978, this piece is hand signed by Andy Warhol (Pittsburgh, 1928 - New York City, 1987) in felt pen in the lower right. Numbered from the edition of 150 in felt pen in the lower right (total edition of 150, 10 AP, and 1 PP). This work was printed by Rupert Jasen Smith, New York and published by Andy Warhol Enterprises, Inc., New York.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

Andy Warhol Muhammad Ali Fist screenprint, 1978 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work).

1. Feldman, F. and Schellmann, J. (2003). Andy Warhol Prints: A Catalogue Raisonné 1962 - 1987, 4th Ed. Distributed Art Publishers, Inc.: NY. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. II.181 on pg. 101.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.

ABOUT THE FRAMING:
Andy Warhol screenprint Fist from Muhammad Ali Series, 1978 is framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, presented in a complimentary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.