Composizione 1955 by Marino Marini, 1901-1980

Marino Marini, 1901-1980
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Composizione 1955

Original lithograph in colours (blue-grey and black). 1955. Signed in pencil. Numbered in pencil (66) from the edition of 125 (plus 5 artist's proofs). Printed at the studio of Kratz, Zurich 1955. Issued by the Schweizerische Graphische Gesellschaft, Bern 1955.
Ref: Guastalla - Marini Opera Grafica no L 49.

Excellent impression. On pale cream wove Marais paper. generally excellent condition; one 5mm repaired nick, now invisible, in the outer right sheet edge well clear of the image. Small margins. Image printed almost to full sheet size (as issued). Sheet: 25 5/8 x 19 5/8ins. Image overall: 24 1/2 x 17 1/4ins (625x438mm).

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'Composizione' is a very fine example of the creative handling of lithography in Marini's prints of the 1950's. The medium is used not merely in a manner which echoes his wash or pencil drawings but in such a way that its own visual and artistic properties are exploited to create an imagery, and a style of image-making, which could not be achieved in any other way. Marini was always fascinated by ancient wall-painting and by wall reliefs; by creating a panel of black surrounded by washed grey he evokes the effect of relief block., and into this block the white scraper line marks a form which has a quality of sparkling sharp incision.

The central theme of Marini's art in the post-war years was his desire to portray the interaction of static and dynamic forces and the conflict or harmony between nature and man. In following this theme he often returned to his favourite motif of the 'horse and rider'. In this composition man and animal are fused into a single unit, the line moving from form to form without interruption. In other studies the two elements are often seen in strident opposition. It is the harmony of 'Composizione', above, together with the relaxed perfection of the way that the medium itself is used, that makes it such a satisfying work.