(1915-1991), alongside Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and , made up the quartet of abstract painters that radically defined Modern painting in America and established New York City as the new center of the art world.

Motherwell was the unofficial spokesman of the New York School, writing, editing a journal, and lecturing on behalf of the movement, his fellow artists, and the merits of abstraction. 

While Motherwell's contribution to the art historical canon as a painter is undisputed, his role as a printmaker is arguably as important. Motherwell is one of the most experimental and courageous printmakers of the 20th century. He was always searching for new techniques to express or expand his ideas and aesthetics.

"Basque Suite", is a series of 10 iconic prints. The group features Motherwell's signature ink-black gestural forms complemented by dense stretches of monochromatic color and breaks of negative space. 

This print is a paradigm of Motherwell's oeuvre: aggressive black forms create a confidant abstract arrangement, softened by decorative and soothing shades of blue.

to see another example from this iconic series.

The complete set of "Basque Suite" can be found in many museum's permanent collections including .

Questions about this piece?  or call . Visit our Toronto gallery on .

"Basque Suite #7"

London, 1971

Color screenprint on J. B. Green paper 

Initialed and inscribed "Artist's proof I" in pencil, lower margin.

Artist's proof, aside from an edition of 150.

29.75"H 23.5"W (work)

42"H 34.25"W (framed)

Very good condition.

Published by Marlborough Graphics, Inc., London.