Bearden Art Appraisal

Abstract Figural Mixed Media Collage by Romare Bearden (Dated '99 inscribed)

This is a vibrant mixed media collage on heavy cardstock, featuring an abstract, anthropomorphic figure. The central composition is built against a rectangular green field, which itself is mounted onto a larger grey backing sheet. The figure's construction is highly eclectic, utilizing various textures and materials including cut-out construction paper in primary and secondary colors (blue, yellow, orange, red, black), textured gold-tone embossed foil or cardstock, and a semi-translucent fibrous mesh or vellum overlaying the torso. The figure features a large orange, kidney-shaped head with minimalist facial features and hair suggested by three blue serrated strips. The work is signed in graphite or charcoal at the lower right of the green section with a script that appears to read a stylized name followed by the date '99'. The overall style is reminiscent of late Modernist collage movements, characterized by its playful use of silhouette and contrasting tactile surfaces. While the composition is dynamic, there are notable condition issues: the left edge of the grey backing sheet shows rough, uneven tearing, suggestive of being removed from a larger folio or bound book. There is minor surface scuffing visible on the green portion, and a subtle vertical crease or surface imperfection is visible in the upper sections of the assembly. The layering of adhesive suggests a hand-assembled, unique original rather than a print. The craftsmanship displays a sophisticated understanding of balance and negative space despite its primitive, folk-art influenced aesthetic.