Andy Warhol (1928-1987) is arguably the most important American artist of the 20th century. He not only defined Pop Art but had an unrivalled influence on artists and image-making.
In the 1950s, Warhol began his career as a fashion illustrator working for top magazines (like Harper's Bazaar) and elegant shops (such as Bonwit Teller) in addition to many smaller independent fashion companies.
The artist's early exposure to commercialization was an important influence on his contribution to Pop Art. Mirroring his lifelong infatuation with branding and celebrity, Warhol embraced ubiquitous imagery (from glamorous icons to Campbell's soup cans) while shining a light on cultural and commercial archetypes of the era.
Completed in 1985, this vibrant unique color trial proof screenprint was commissioned by the German Federal Road Haulage Association (BDF) for the 20th World Congress of the International Road Transport Union (IRU).
While a cargo truck may seem an unlikely subject for the legendary Pop artist, its symbol represents the impetus of industrialization. Set on a powder blue background, the truck is ignited by florescent shades of tangerine, grapefruit, and canary yellow as it launches down a cobalt highway.
2022 has been a monumental year for Warhol after new records for auction sales in different categories. Most notably in May 2022, his 1964 work "Shot Sage Blue Marilyn" achieved $195 million, making it the most expensive American artwork to sell at auction.
As the Warhol market continues to gallop to a stratosphere beyond, there are fewer and fewer examples of pivotal works in circulation.
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"Truck"
Unique color trial proof screenprint on Lenox museum board
Published by Herman Wuensche (Bonn, Germany)
Printed by Rupert Jasen Smith, New York, with his blindstamp
Signed by artist, bottom right
Copyright stamp, Andy Warhol 1985, verso
39”H 39”W (work)
51.5"H 51.5"W (framed)
Very good condition.
Provenance: Galerie Erik Bausmann (Mainz, Germany)
