Jean-Michel Basquiat

Updated October 27, 2026

Title: Text and Figure Composition with "THOR" on Red Ground Technique: Acrylic on canvas Measures: 31 x 23 inches (78.7 x 58.4 cm) Year: Undated Condition: Appears in generally good visual condition based on the photographs supplied, with bold, saturated coloration and loose, gestural brushwork, including drips, scumbled passages, and raised lines of paint. No significant paint losses or tears are apparent in the available images. Minor surface irregularities, light handling marks, and age-related wear may be present. Presented in a black frame, showing minor surface wear. Not examined out of the frame. Condition is described from the photographs supplied. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition description. Provenance: Acquired by private transfer from the private collection of the Lefèvre family in Brussels to the private collection of the Martens family in Antwerp. Visual Description: A dense, layered composition in vertical format, built over a ground of vermilion red, salmon, and pale peach that is interrupted by blocks of black, sky blue, and mustard yellow. Hand-lettered words and symbols are scattered throughout in black and white capitals, including "HALO," "EX," "END PASS," "EPZ," "NOT," and "JUNGE," along with rows of repeated letters, crossed-out marks, ladders, grids, and numerals. At the center, the word "THOR" is set within a yellow oval outlined in black and ringed with short radiating lines, acting as a focal point for the surrounding activity. Above it, a small, dark skeletal figure with a spindly body and white eyes stands against a patch of yellow, while at upper left a cartoonish face is sketched in red and white over black and blue. A loose grid of black lines spreads across the lower half, framing letters and a dollar sign, and a row of open circles and ovals marches across the lower right and middle right. White scratches, brushy smears, and fine drips cut across the colored fields, creating a raw, collage-like layering of image, text, and erasure. The combination of graffiti-derived lettering, crude figuration, and energetic, unrefined handling reflects the visual language of Neo-Expressionism and early-1980s street-influenced painting. This composition reflects stylistic elements commonly associated with major figures in modern and contemporary art. For additional information regarding certification, provenance, or any inquiries about this piece or other items, please don't hesitate to contact us through the HiBid platform. A secondary market exists for uncatalogued artworks like this one, which often results in lower estimated and sale prices compared to catalogued artist works. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance in understanding the value, context, or details of this artwork, we are here to help and provide any additional information you may need.

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