Armin Mueller Stahl Art Appraisal

Marlene Dietrich by Armin Mueller-Stahl

This item is a limited edition lithographic print featuring a portrait of iconic actress Marlene Dietrich, created by the renowned German actor and artist Armin Mueller-Stahl. The artwork is executed in a gestural, expressionistic style on white heavy-stock paper. The color palette is primarily monochromatic, using black and various shades of grey wash, accented by a deep burgundy or oxblood red wash in the background to the left of the figure. The subject is depicted wearing a top hat and having a cigarette in her mouth, referencing her famous role in 'The Blue Angel.' The application of ink is vigorous, featuring both fine pen-like lines and broad, atmospheric washes. Notably, the piece includes a hand-written name 'marlene dietrich' within the lower-right field of the image itself. Below the image plate on the white margin, the work is hand-signed by the artist in the lower right as 'Mueller-Stahl.' In the lower-left margin, it is hand-numbered '1/180,' indicating this is the first pull from a limited edition series of 180 prints. The condition appears excellent with clean margins and no visible signs of foxing, creasing, or fading. The style suggests a contemporary production, likely from the late 20th or early 21st century. The craftsmanship reflects the artist's signature loose, evocative technique which captures personality over precise realism.