Untitled [‘Abstract’] 1980 [W/P]



Synthetic polymer paint on paper, 62 x 89

signed and dated [l.r.: ‘Howard Arkley 80’]

Coll.: unknown

First recorded at auction with Deutscher-Menzies soon after Arkley’s death, when it was described as ‘double sided’, and catalogued under the title ‘Abstract’. Subsequently auctioned in 2001 and 2006.

The style is consistent with other works from the period, and the pattern is close to that used for Arabesque 1979 [aka Floral].

Provenance

  • auctioned by Deutscher-Menzies, Melb., 24 Nov.1999, lot 15 (as ‘Abstract’; ill.[recto only], size etc. as above; no previous history given; est.$5-7,000; sold for $6,500 plus buyer’s premium)
  • auctioned by Christie’s, Melb., 27/28 Nov.2001, lot 315 (as ‘Untitled 1980’, 63.5 x 90; s+d l.r.; ill.; est.$8-12,000; not sold?)
  • P/C Melb. (acc.to Deutscher-Menzies 9/06)
  • auctioned again by Deutscher-Menzies, Melb., 13-14 Sept.2006, lot 119 (again as ‘Abstract’, ill.and dets. as above, noting the 11/99 auction and subsequent history; est.$7-10,000; sold for $8,500 plus buyer’s premium)