Louise Nevelson (1899–1988) is one of the most important American sculptors of the 20th century.
Best known for her monumental monochromatic assemblages, Nevelson transformed discarded wooden fragments into complex architectural compositions, using repetition, accumulation, and shadow to create environments that hover between abstraction and architecture.
Regardless of medium, Nevelson is renowned for her complex and distinctive artworks. She was an active printmaker, experimenting with different techniques and approaches while working with some of the best print-making studios in the United States and Italy.
Tonalities III (Beige), from Tonalities (1981) translates Nevelson’s sculptural vocabulary into an intimate work on paper. As is typical for the artist, there is some optical work required from the viewer as they decide which elements of the work are printed, collaged, or simply the paper showing through.
The shadows that define the delicate subject matter are echoed in a grounding plane of black that frames the beige composition. The mixed textures and tonal contrasts create a composition that has a sculptural presence.
Produced later in Nevelson’s career, Tonalities III demonstrates her continued ability to translate the fundamental concerns of her sculpture into print. Here, physical mass gives way to the illusion of volume, with line, tone, and repetition creating a compelling sense of structure and shadow.
Over the last few years, there has been tremendous momentum in both interest and appreciation of Nevelson's work. In May 2021, a new auction record of $1.35 million was set for one of her iconic white constructions. This result is still a bargain considering the auction records of male contemporaries such as John Chamberlain ($4.7 million) or Joseph Cornell ($7.7 million).
Questions about this piece? Contact us, call +1.416.704.1720, or visit our Toronto gallery.
"Tonalities III" (Beige) from Tonalities
USA, 1981
Etching with aquatint in colors on Arches cover paper
Signed and dated in pencil, lower right
Numbered 20/20 in pencil, lower left
Published by Pace Editions, Inc., New York
47.75"H 31.75"W (sheet)
50.25"H 34.25"W (framed)
Very good condition
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