Patrick Nagel (American, 1945-1984). Blonde in Sunglasses (NC #5), 1983. Acrylic on canvas. 30 x 30 inches (76.2 x 76.2 ...

Description

Patrick Nagel (American, 1945-1984)
Blonde in Sunglasses (NC #5), 1983
Acrylic on canvas
30 x 30 inches (76.2 x 76.2 cm)
Signed and dated lower right

PROVENANCE:
Dyansen Gallery, New York;
Private collection, Manhasset, New York, acquired from the above, 1983.

As one of Patrick Nagel's most graphically striking images, Blonde In Sunglasses showcases the crisp and bold lines, dramatic attitude, pop sensibility, and minimalist restraint that made him the most iconic artist of women of the 1980s. Employing an immediately recognizable palette that defined an entire era, this absolute knockout is one of the finest to ever appear at auction, and represents an important discovery, having resided in the same collection for decades.

The work is also known as NC#5, as a slight variant of the image was used in the Nagel Commemorative limited-edition serigraph series. The serigraph series drew from Nagel's most iconic images, of which Blonde In Sunglasses is unquestionably one. This serigraph was created from a version of this image that appeared in the January 1983 issue of Playboy magazine as part of the article "A Guide for Prospective Husbands".

Nagel's canvases are extremely rare, and represent the artist's most realized expressions of his own vision, thus the most desirable examples of his art for collectors. Publicly unseen since its 1983 exhibition at New York City's Dyansen Gallery, the resurfacing of this masterpiece is a significant event.

A limited edition print was published for the Patrick Nagel exhibition at the B-1 Gallery in Santa Monica, California featuring this work. The image also appears on page 125 of The Art of Patrick Nagel (St. James Press, 1985).

A preliminary drawing of this work is also being offered in today's auction as lot 71107.

We would like to thank Monica Moynihan of Patrick Nagel Arts for her invaluable assistance in cataloging this lot.


More information about Patrick Nagel. See also: Nagel, Patrick Artist.



*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.