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Auction Name: 2026 March 5 Latin American Art Showcase Auction

Lot Number: 35036

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/17232*35036

Ruben Torres Llorca (b. 1957)
Collection of the Artist (Work In Progress)
Carved wood, metal, paint, and chalkboards
92 x 80 inches (233.7 x 203.2 cm) (overall, appr.)
9 x 3 inches (each, figure appr.)
3-1/2 x 6-1/2 inches (each, chalkboard)

PROVENANCE:
Private collection, New York.

LITERATURE:
Ruben Torress Llorca: Modelo Para (Easy to Build), Praxis, New York, pp. 27-28, similar example illustrated.

Artist Ruben Torres Llorca works across painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and photography. Rather than advancing a single, fixed statement, his practice prioritizes dialogue-both within the work itself and in the space surrounding it-allowing him to move freely between mediums without adherence to a single, conventional practice. In Collection of the Artist (Work in Progress), Llorca presents sixty-six hand-carved and painted fetishes, arranged in orderly rows. Each figure is labeled across the chest in ink and paired with an identifying chalkboard. The names-selected by the artist-belong to nineteen art critics, fifteen collectors, thirteen curators, twelve art dealers, five museum directors, and two teachers from Cuba and Florida. Small in scale but expansive in implication, the figures extend the dialogue beyond the artwork itself, prompting a broader conversation about the individuals depicted and the roles they occupy within the art world.


Condition Report*: Presents very well. One figure with notable loss to lower left foot; one figure (Carlos) with area of repair to knee. Some light scattered wear. Dust to recesses.
*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

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