Vertical Flags Print Appraisal

Alexander Calder 'Vertical Flags' Artist Proof Color Lithograph

This item is an original color lithograph titled 'Vertical Flags' by the renowned American sculptor and artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976). This specific piece is an Artist Proof (AP), which is a print produced outside of the regular numbered edition for the artist's personal use or evaluation. The composition features Calder's iconic visual vocabulary, utilizing a palette of primary colors—red, yellow, and blue—alongside bold black linework against a cream-colored woven paper background. On the left, a series of loopy, vine-like black lines support organic shapes in red, yellow, and black. The right side features a vertical 'flagpole' element with red and yellow triangles and blue and red circles. The work is signed 'Calder' in pencil in the lower right corner. The print is housed under glass in a simple, thin gold-toned metal frame with a neutral mat. Visible condition issues include some light aging to the paper and potential minor rippling, which is common for works of this age (circa 1960s-1970s). The colors remain vibrant, and the signature appears clear. Such works from the mid-century modern period reflect the playful, kinetic energy found in Calder's famous mobile sculptures.