Zèbre. 1938. by Victor Vasarely, 1908-1997

Victor Vasarely, 1908-1997
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Zèbre. 1938.

Original lithograph in black ink. 1938/1969. Signed in pencil. Numbered (4) from the edition of 138 (plus 22 proofs - total edition of 150). Printed at the studio of Mourlot, Paris in 1969 from the earlier 1938 composition. Issued in the series: 'Descartes - Discours de la Méthode'. Published by Editions Essellier, Paris 1969.

Superb impression. On stiff cream wove paper. Excellent unrubbed condition. The full sheet: 18 3/4 x 16 3/4ins (475 x 425mm) Image: 8 5/8 x 12 5/8ins (218x320mm)

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The original concept of this image dates from the very earliest period of Vasarely's work in the 1930's. At that time he had just begun to experiment with the optical effects of geometric forms, and he applied his early theories to a small number of compositions using a figurative base. In 1969, when he was working on the screenprint series 'Discours de la Méthode' he returned to some of these themes from the early years. The are amongst the most unusual and individual prints.

Vasarely's concepts of the optical use of form and colour to create abstract spatial structures, and most importantly, to create the sense of optical movement through deceptions to the eye, were amongst the most influential pictorial innovation of the post-war years. They had roots in the abstract work of artists like Mondrian and the Delaunays, but in their insistence on a geometric treatment of form they were to introduce a whole new element into mid 20th century art.