90
R.B. Kitaj
(American, 1932-2007)
Untitled (Baseball Players)
Estimate: $5,000-$7,000
Passed
Live Auction
Master of Ceremonies: The Joel Grey Collection
Location
Philadelphia
Size
11 1/4 x 15 inches.
Description
R.B. Kitaj
(American, 1932-2007)
Untitled (Baseball Players)
graphite on paper
signed Kitaj (lower right)
11 1/4 x 15 inches.
The Collection of Joel Grey
This lot is located in Philadelphia.
Condition
Framed: 19 1/4 x 23 inches.Paper is slightly toned with light and time. Surface soiling is apparent throughout - most noticeably some scattered fingerprints and evidence of gentle handling apparent in background at top of work. There is a gentle diagonal crease at top right corner, as well as some gentle handling creases around the same area. There is also a small circular area of discoloration above signature at bottom right. Paper is hinged to mat with two pieces of white adhesive verso. Remnants of previous adhesive is present verso.
Signature
signed Kitaj (lower right)
Provenance
Lot Note:This charming early drawing by R.B. Kitaj captures a group of Cleveland ballplayers in a moment of casual camaraderie. Rendered with expressive linework and a keen eye for character, the work dates to Kitaj’s younger years and speaks to his early love of storytelling through figuration.R.B. Kitaj and Mr. Grey met as children in grammar school in Cleveland, Ohio, reconnecting years later as adults when Grey- by then an admirer of great artists- was struck to discover that “Ronnie Kitaj” had become the renowned R.B. Kitaj. A joyful reunion in London marked the rekindling of a deep bond. Reflecting on their reunion, Grey recalled embracing Kitaj at a gallery opening “as if we had seen each other the day before. I loved him very much."