Gerhard Richter’s Monumental Abstract and Georg Baselitz’s Pensive Self-Portrait Lead Phillips’ Upcoming Sale

German visual artist Gerhard Richter is renowned for his photorealistic and abstract paintings, glass pieces, and photographs. The contemporary artist builds up his images with detailed patterns based on his innovative techniques. He masterfully blurs and scraps to both mask and uncover preceding layers. One such striking oil on canvas, titled Abstraktes Bild, is a key highlight of the upcoming sale from Phillips. Richter uses his hallmark squeegee tool to swoop in wide vertical, horizontal and diagonal gradations of varied hues. These include strawberry red, sunshine yellow, midnight blue, bright cerulean, turquoise, and lime green. The unique work is of monumental scale, executed in two canvases (left and right panels). Another interesting oil painting is Joan Mitchell’s Blueberry, which illustrates her distinctive and vigorous style. In this electrifying work, she tactfully balances the central brushstrokes of thick and expansive blue with waves of pale pink on the edges. 

Georg Baselitz’s pensive self-portrait Ein Roter also leads the listings. Although the red beret suggests of Communist connection, the depiction lacks any sense of nationalism. The man’s expression is contemplative and the background appears deserted. Visit Phillips to view the complete catalog and register to bid in the upcoming 20th Century & Contemporary Art Evening sale.