Vivid, theatrical and unmistakably expressive, Punchinello is a rare 1972 limited edition color lithograph by celebrated American artist LeRoy Neiman. Punchinello reveals the artist’s fascination with theater, mythology, costume and storytelling. The restrained palette with shades of blue, warm ochre, earthy browns and brilliant crimson creates an elegant balance between contemporary expressionism and classical illustration.
This beautifully composed lithograph portrays the legendary Punchinello, the mischievous trickster of the Italian Commedia dell’Arte. Dressed in flowing blue garments and accompanied by a proud rooster, the figure is rendered in Neiman’s fluid watercolor inspired washes, expressive line work and spontaneous brushstrokes. Handwritten manuscript text fills the background, adding both historical context and visual texture while reinforcing the centuries old folklore surrounding the character.
Punchinello is a signed and numbered limited edition lithograph by LeRoy Neiman. Signed in pencil by the artist, his signature appears in the lower right, while the edition number 84/200 is in the lower left, along with the publishers blindstamp.
The artwork is professionally presented in an elegant gilt wood frame with a warm distressed antique gold leaf finish. The wide off-white archival mat gives the composition ample breathing room. A decorative antique gold fillet has been added around the image opening, echoing the larger frame and creating a sophisticated layered presentation.
Punchinello offers a sophisticated and historically rich addition to collections of American modern art, theatrical art, figurative prints or twentieth century lithography.
ARTIST: LeRoy Neiman (American 1921-2012)
TITLE: Punchinello
PERIOD: 1972
EDITION: 82/200
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: United States
MEDIUM: Color lithograph on Arches paper.
CONDITION: Excellent condition. The frame finish has some marks where the finish is worn. This can be seen in the detail photos. This artwork has not been examined out of the frame.
FRAME: Gilt wood frame with off-white mat, under acrylic.
FRAME SIZE
HEIGHT: 42.25 in. (107 cm)
WIDTH: 35.75 in. (91 cm)
DEPTH: 1.25 in. (3 cm)
IMAGE SIZE – SIGHT
HEIGHT: 30 in. (76 cm)
WIDTH: 24 in. (61 cm)
