Sam Francis is known for his expert investigations of the color blue. Sam Francis Dark Blue Cup, 1973 is certainly no exception. The lithograph explodes with brilliant shades of blue from dark true blues, to lighter aquamarine blues verging on green. The work is a mixture of thick but short blue lines, thinner dashes, and overlaying splatter. The multiple elements give a depth and texture to the work and the blue colors explore the emotion of the artist’s psyche. It offers a controlled yet spontaneous environment for contemplation of the viewer who can at once find order and chaos. The order comes from the similarity of the color marking across the paper, as well as the pentagonal shapes emerging in the background. Chaos comes from the splatted nature of the color and the stunning drip effect that Francis has created. Such contrasts make for a well-rounded artwork that keeps the viewer engaged.

Created in 1973, this color lithograph on Rives BFK paper is hand signed by by Sam Francis (San Mateo, 1923- Santa Monica, 1994) in pencil in the lower right of center. A state proof numbered 3/4  in pencil in the lower left this work was printed by George Page, assisted by Dan Cytron and Keith Kirts, Litho Shop Inc., Santa Monica, and features the Litho Shop chop mark in the lower right.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

Sam Francis Dark Blue Cup, 1973 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. Lembark, Connie. The Prints of Sam Francis Catalogue Raisonné 1960-1990. New York: Hudson Hills Press, 1992. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. L161.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:

Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards Sam Francis Dark Blue Cup, 1973 is presented in a complementary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.