Watchman [trial proof]

1967

Jasper Johns

Associated Names
Jasper Johns

Artist, American, born 1930

Zigmunds Priede

Printer, American, born Latvia, 1935-2024

The image consists of bold, sweeping brushstrokes and scattered lines creating an abstract mix of shapes. There are dominant shapes resembling a chair's contours, with an outline suggesting an overturned chair tilted to the right. In the lower section, a large curved form with a smooth gradient resembles the hull of a boat or canoe. The background features a collage of letters, some partially legible as they peek through dark strokes, hinting at fragmented words such as "RE," "Y," and "BL." On the right, vertical blocks of vibrant primary colors like red, yellow, and blue contrast with the monochromatic scheme, resembling stained glass or painted tiles. This abstract artwork showcases dynamic interplay of textures and forms.
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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

the artist, Sharon, Connecticut; acquired 2004 by the National Gallery of Art

Associated Names

Bibliography

1994

  • Field, Richard S. The Prints of Jasper Johns, 1960-1993: A Catalogue Raisonné. West Islip, New York: Universal Limited Art Editions, 1994, no. 32.

Inscriptions

upper right in graphite: J Johns; upper right in stone: J Johns; lower right in graphite: Trial Proof

Markings

blind stamp: [chop of Universal Limited Art Editions]

Watermarks

J. Johns (partial watermark)

Wikidata ID

Q76344426

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