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JEAN [HANS] ARP 1886-1966
Strasbourg, France 1886 – 1966 Basel, Switzerland (German/French)

Title: Variable Picture (3 x 7 = 21 Shapes) | Variables Bild (3 x 7 = 21 Formen), 1964

Technique: Original Hand Signed and Numbered Paper, Wood and Plexiglas Multiple

Size: 40 x 40 cm. / 15.7 x 15.7 in.

Additional Information: This multiple is hand signed by the artist “J. Arp” in blue ballpoint pen on a label, verso.
It is also hand numbered in blue ballpoint pen, from the edition of 100 on a label, verso.
It was published by Galerie der Spiegel édition MAT, Cologne in 1965
Each example of Arp’s Variables Bild (3 x 7 = 21 Formen) is composed of a unique formation of 21 pieces of stamped-cut paper, arranged by chance making each one of the works in this edition different and unique.

Note: The artist, along with other Dada and Surrealist artists, embraced chance and spontaneity as a tool in their creative process by removing direct rational thought from the artistic outcome.
Arp explained: ‘I allow myself to be guided by the work at the time of its birth, I have confidence in it. I don’t reflect. The forms come, pleasing or strange, hostile, inexplicable, dumb or drowsy. They are born of themselves.
(Arp, quoted in Jours effeuills: Poemes, essais, souvenirs, 1920-1965, Zurich, 1963, pp. 435-436)

Condition: Very good condition. The Plexiglas showing minor signs of wear due to age. The paper shapes and wooden support in very good condition. The signed label with remnants of adhesive along the upper edge, verso.