Two rare etchings by Constant are Olla Art’s most recent acquisitions. Rare, because both etchings were issued in an edition of only 20 copies. In addition, some proofs were printed. The copies offered are both such proofs. Both etchings date from 1971, Constant’s most prolific etching year. They form a nice addition to Olla Art’s already extensive collection of Constant graphics.
Size
‘Chairs’ is an etching-and-aquatint in a somewhat larger size than we know of Constant (many of his etchings are real miniatures). In this etching he depicts two chairs, placed back-to-back.
Constant, Stoelen, etching and aquatint, 1971
56.5 x 38.5 cm (sheet), 15.3 x 21.8 cm (image)
Constant, Conversatie, etching, 1971
56.5 x 38.5 cm (sheet), 17.5 x 21.8 cm (image)
The etching ‘Conversation’ has a similar size, but shows a rather different style and technique: Constant depicts two figures here in razor-thin lines, apparently engaged in a lively conversation.
Provenance and condition
Both etchings come from a former employee of Constant’s printer, and both are in optimal condition. The etchings are identically framed and mounted behind passe-partout. If desired, the aluminium frame can be replaced by, for example, a wooden frame at relatively little extra cost.
Both etchings are described on the website of the Stichting Constant. ‘Stoelen’ is also included as number 111 in the overview work of Constant’s graphics, published by Waanders (shown on page 131).