Part of Frank Stella’s Moby Dick series, this color etching aquatint features a wide array of geometric shapes splayed out across the page. A strong column-like shape takes center stage, with organic shapes reminiscent of undulating coral and smooth seashells emanating from it. Stella employs a minimalistic color scheme; most of the image is black and white, save for a patch of seafoam green in the left half of the page that sets the scene by reminding the viewer of the work’s title and inspiration. With the rest of the image in grayscale, the strong contrast between blacks and whites lends a tension to the work that is held in check by Stella’s masterful balance of curved and straight lines that guide the viewer’s eyes throughout the page and from element to element. The intricate and varied linework also works to keep the eye engaged as the abstract elements on the page weave between and around each other. Each element has its own distinct pattern, which both contributes to the intriguing hustle and bustle of the page’s design and gives each element its own distinctive personality. Stella’s use of multiple printmaking techniques in this single image is an amazing showcase of skill and the artist’s unparalleled talent, and Fossil Whale is an exemplar of Stella’s incredible abilities.

Created in 1991, this color etching aquatint with carborundum in colors and relief printing on TGL handmade paper is hand-signed by Frank Stella (Massachusetts, 1936 - ) in black crayon in the lower left image. One of 2 printers proofs, inscribed "PP II" in pencil in the lower left margin; aside from the regular numbered from the edition of 22. Printed and published by Tyler Graphics, Ltd., Mount Kisco.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Frank Stella Fossil Whale, from Moby Dick Engravings, 1991 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 sale of the work).

1. Axsom, Richard H. The Prints of Frank Stella: A Catalogue Raisonné. New York: Hudson Hills Press, 1983. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 202.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:
Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Frank Stella Fossil Whale, from Moby Dick Engravings, 1991 is presented in a complementary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.