Configuration 1951. by Jean (Hans) Arp, 1887-1966

Jean (Hans) Arp, 1887-1966
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Configuration 1951.

Original lithograph in two colours. 1951. Signed in pencil. Numbered (138) in pencil from the edition of 200. Drawn and printed at the studio of Desjobert, Paris 1951. Edition issued by the Guilde de la Gravure Geneva 1951. (Blindstamp) (Note: Arp also used the same forms linked to differing
colours for a further image in an edition of 60). Ref: Arntz - Arp Das Graphische Werk no 327.

Excellent impression with fresh colours. On pale cream wove Rives paper. Excellent condition. Image uses full sheet. Sheet: 565x380mm. 22 1/4 x 15ins.

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'Configuration' is one of the most sensuously beautiful and important lithographs of the early post-war period of Arp's work in this medium. It has the emotional flow and the combination of solid and penetrated form which epitomize the constantly evolving anthromorphic quality of his sculptures at this period.

The choice of colouration is also characteristic of the cool, detached but at the same time powerfully emotive handling of form in his art in the 1950's. The shapes are created in a steel grey with the central area in turquoise blue, which has a quality of almost 'tingling' light. The whole combination inspires an extremely tactile feeling in the flow of the contours and an appeal to the innermost roots of creation in mankind.

Configuration is one of two compositions which Arp drew in lithography for the Guilde de la Gravure in 1951. They are now recognized as key works in his whole use of the medium in the post-war period.