Pierre Soulages (1919 - 2022)
Lithographie n°17, 1963
A powerful and iconic lithograph by Pierre Soulages, Lithographie n°17 captures the artist’s distinctive exploration of black as both form and light. The composition is built from bold, intersecting black gestures that create a strong sense of movement and structural tension across the surface. Subtle textures within the ink interact with light, while the surrounding white paper heightens contrast and clarity.
A narrow vertical accent of vivid blue along the right edge introduces a rare chromatic note, adding visual tension and balance to the otherwise monochrome composition. Printed by the renowned Mourlot studio and published by Art de France under the direction of Pierre Berès in 1964, this work is recorded in both major catalogues raisonnés: Rivière (no. 19) and Encrevé (no. 63).
Preserved in mint condition, this lithograph is a striking and highly desirable example of Soulages’ contribution to post-war abstract art.
Details
• Lithograph on wove paper, 1963
• Illustration: 12 9/10 × 9 4/5 in (33 × 25 cm)
• Printer: Mourlot
• Publisher: Art de France, Pierre Berès, 1964
• Reference: Rivière 19, Encrevé 63
• Unsigned and unframed
• Condition: Mint
