Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960–1988) Acrylic on Canvas

Updated August 7, 2026

Title Untitled Medium Acrylic on Canvas Dimensions 32 × 24 inches (81.3 × 61 cm) Date 1982 Condition Good overall condition. The surface displays vibrant color, expressive layered paint application, and strong visual impact throughout. Minor wear consistent with age and careful handling. The canvas remains structurally sound and presents exceptionally well. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. Provenance The reverse bears an Andre Emmerich Gallery, New York label identifying the work as Untitled by Jean-Michel Basquiat, dated 1982, acrylic on canvas, measuring 32 × 24 inches. This gallery label is presented as part of the artwork's provenance and historical documentation and should not be interpreted as a certificate of authenticity or definitive proof of authorship. Description This dynamic composition embodies the raw energy and visual vocabulary that define the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Executed with expressive acrylic brushwork, the painting features the artist's iconic crown motif alongside handwritten words, fragmented phrases, symbols, diagrams, and layered passages of color arranged within a richly textured surface. The vibrant turquoise ground contrasts dramatically with fields of black, ochre, white, and crimson, while words such as "KING," "CROWN," "FUEL," and "FAIL" combine with gestural markings to create a visually complex narrative that invites multiple interpretations. The composition reflects the fusion of street culture, contemporary symbolism, Neo-Expressionism, and poetic abstraction that made Basquiat one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. Attributed to Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960–1988), this work captures many of the stylistic characteristics associated with his celebrated paintings from the early 1980s, including bold text, expressive mark-making, symbolic imagery, and layered compositional structure. Its museum-inspired aesthetic, exceptional decorative appeal, and unmistakable visual identity make this an outstanding addition to collections of Contemporary Art, Neo-Expressionism, Post-War American Art, and investment-quality decorative paintings. Condition Report:This artwork is offered as attributed to the artist referenced in the title. An attribution represents an opinion or belief regarding the possible authorship of the work, but it does not constitute a guarantee or certification of authenticity. This artwork is not catalogued, and no representation is made that it has been accepted by the artist's catalogue raisonné, estate, foundation, or any recognized authentication authority. Any provenance information provided with this lot is offered for informational purposes only and should not be considered a certificate of authenticity or definitive proof of authorship. In some cases, provenance information may be limited or unavailable. For additional information regarding this lot, including any available provenance details, condition,

Register & bid on this lot at Bidspirit →

More lots in this auction

• Joan Mitchell (1925–1992) Oil on Canvas
• Keith Haring (American 1958–1990) Acrylic on...
• Richard Pousette-Dart American Oil on Canvas
• Pablo Picasso (Spanish 1881–1973) Oil on Canvas
• Yayoi Kusama (b. 1929) Acrylic on Canvas
• Yayoi Kusama (b. 1929) Acrylic on Canvas
• Gerhard Richter (b. 1932) Oil on Canvas
• Andy Warhol Color Lithograph on Paper

See all lots in Fine European & American Modern Art Auction →