This upside down and vigorously coarse shade is characteristic of the early eighties when figurative neo-expressionism cut a controversial swathe through the international art scene. Many of the leading practitioners were hacks and have since faded to obscurity. Baselitz is one of the survivors, his best works channel modern anxiety or restlessness through the lens of European history. Major paintings by this artist are tightly held, and typically command stratospheric prices on the secondary market. Original drawings like this provide a more feasible opportunity for collectors to include a celebrated international artist to their list. Charcoal on paper, 605 x 430mm. Auction estimate (£15,000- £20,000).
Price realised at auction: £18,900