Andy Warhol is one of the biggest names in 20th century art, so it’s no wonder buyers are competing for his autograph.
Today a good specimen will set you back around $1,000.
Here’s a few of the specific factors affecting value.
His work is really popular
When you think about it, there are quite a few artists who are household names.
(Image: Wikimedia Commons)
Pablo Picasso. Henri Matisse. Damien Hirst.
But Warhol eclipses all of them in terms of popularity.
His prints can be found in homes all over the world.
And no wonder. He has an approachable style that makes use of symbols ordinary people see every day.
His canvases are bright and colourful. And they’re evocative of the 1960s – an era people tend to look back on fondly.
Place in history
Warhol occupies a unique position in the art world.
Generally artists are popular with either experts or the public.
(Image: Wikimedia Commons)
But Warhol is one of very few who appeals equally to both.
Pop art was a product of popular culture and mainstream media adopted it with enthusiasm.
Warhol, more than anyone, seemed to understand where culture was headed.
In 1968, he wrote in the foreword to an exhibition catalogue: “in the future everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes”.
Instagram, YouTube and Twitter have since proven this to be the case.
He’s hard to authenticate
Unlike some famous people, Warhol didn’t have a problem signing autographs.
He was courteous to fans.
(Image: Wikimedia Commons)
There are plenty of autographs around (Campbell’s soup cans were a particular favourite at signings).
But of the major themes of Warhol’s work is mass production.
This presents a specific challenge for those attempting to authenticate his work.
And his signature carries its own problems.
The way Warhol signed changed dramatically over the course of his life. And as he’s a valuable signer, there are some excellent forgeries out there.
This increases competition for the few specimens to boast great provenance.
Paul Fraser.
PS. Do you have an Andy Warhol autograph you’re looking to sell? I may be able to help. Get in touch today at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com.
