RIOPELLE "LE SABLIER 6" LITHO, 1979

Jean-Paul Riopelle (1923-2002) is arguably the most successful post-war abstract painter from Canada. 

While Americans have traditionally favored Jackson Pollock as the most influential Abstract Expressionist of the 20th century, Riopelle's stature in Europe is of competing importance for his version of 'automatic' action painting. 

His early canvases were densely intricate webs of constructed color created by using a palette knife. His later work both loosened up and became more structured as he experimented with composition and more specific or limited palettes. 

Riopelle would also embrace a range of media, including works on paper and prints.

"Le Sablier" is from a small 1979 portfolio published by the illustrious Maeght. This particular work boasts a beautiful palette of maroon, orange, hunter green, white and cream.

"Sablier" is the French word for "hourglass," and one could interpret some of these works as representations of the passage of time.

This lithograph is a distinctive paradigm of Riopelle's printmaking. 

Questions about this artwork? Contact us, call +1.416.704.1720, or visit our Toronto gallery.

"Le Sablier 6"

Lithograph

From an edition of 90

France, circa 1979.

Signed, titled, numbered "65/90" in pencil, lower edges

Published by Maeght, Paris

21.5"H 25.5"W (sheet)

27.75"H 31.25"W (framed)

Framed with museum glass

Very good condition