Sam Francis (San Mateo CA, 1923 – Santa Monica CA, 1994) embodies his acclaimed moniker as a colorist in Untitled (1896) through strategic layering of color and energetic mark making. Francis’ fascination with the process of creating lithographs is apparent in the way the colors are purposefully transparent. The transparency of the colors permits visual penetration into each layer, exposing the order in which Francis layered the colors. Three red rings of varying size function as a set of focal points that pulsate beneath splatters of cool teal. Accents of yellow add depth and brightness to the overall composition, pulling the red rings forward and highlighting patches of teal. The drips and splatters in Untitled (1896) draw attention to Francis’ hand as an artist, solidifying in visual form the act of creating. Although splattering is by nature a spontaneous method of expression, the compositional balance within this work attests to Francis’ creative control.

Created in 1986, this color lithograph on BFK Rives paper is hand-signed and inscribed “CTP” by Sam Francis (San Mateo, 1923 - Santa Monica, 1994) in pencil in the lower right. Published by The Litho Shop, Inc. of Santa Monica, California, Sam Francis Untitled (1896) is one of five unique color trial proofs aside from the edition of 45.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Sam Francis Untitled, 1986 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: A Catalogue Raisonné 1960-1990 Volume I. New York: Hudson Hills Press, 1992. Listed and illustrated as L-264.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:
Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Sam Francis Untitled, 1986 is presented in a complementary molding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglass.