AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is an original color lithograph by the American kinetic sculptor and artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976), titled 'Vertical Flags'. The work is an Artist’s Proof (designated by the notation 'A.P.' or 'E.A.') and features Calder's primary signature in pencil at the bottom right. The composition is executed in Calder’s signature mid-century modern abstract style, characterized by bold primary colors—red, yellow, and blue—alongside heavy black linear forms and organic shapes against a cream-to-white paper background. The artwork features two distinct vertical arrangements: a left-side scrolling vine-like motif with black, red, and yellow 'petals' and a right-side geometric central axis with alternating red triangles and adjacent circular forms. The construction appears to be high-quality lithographic ink on thick, archival-style paper. The piece is housed in a contemporary thin-profile metal frame with a matted border. Estimated to be from the mid-1970s, the piece shows no significant foxing or water damage, though light paper toning and minor frame scuffs are visible, consistent with age. The craftsmanship reflects Calder's kinetic philosophy, utilizing static shapes to imply movement and balance through vibrant color blocks and confident line work.

Based on my examination of the digital images provided, this appears to be an authentic color lithograph by Alexander Calder, titled 'Vertical Flags,' likely produced in the mid-1970s. The work is designated an Artist's Proof (E.A. or A.P.) and bears a pencil signature characteristic of Calder's later hand. The composition—featuring bold primary colors (red, blue, yellow) and organic black forms—is emblematic of his kinetic aesthetic translated to a two-dimensional medium. The paper shows slight toning consistent with age, but clearly lacks significant foxing or moisture damage, which preserves the vibrancy of the lithographic ink. In the current market, Calder's prints remain highly liquid and desirable, particularly his brighter, more optimistic compositions from the 1970s. While editioned prints of 'Vertical Flags' typically trade between $800 and $1,200, an Artist's Proof often commands a slight premium due to scarcity, pushing the valuation into the $1,000–$1,500 range. However, this sector of the market is saturated with posthumous or authorized reproductions, making verification crucial. The value assumes this is a lifetime impression printed under Calder's supervision, rather than a later estate print. To confirm the upper end of this valuation, I would require an in-person inspection to verify the paper watermark (often Arches or Rives BFK) and examine the ink layers under magnification to rule out offset lithography or giclée reproduction. Additionally, definitive authenticity would depend on provenance documentation tracing the piece back to a reputable gallery or the publisher, as many fraudulent Calder signatures exist in the secondary market.