Vintage R.C.Gorman “Anasazi Jar” Lithograph, Large | Signed, 1986 | Limited, Roman Numeral Run

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This vintage lithograph is titled “Anasazi Jar” and it was produced by the renowned Native American artist R.C. Gorman. This … Read more This vintage lithograph is titled “Anasazi Jar” and it was produced by the renowned Native American artist R.C. Gorman. This piece was printed as part of a very limited "Roman Numeral" run in 1986. It is numbered in the bottom right corner “XXII/XXV,” whereas the later edition of this subject was produced in 1988 and numbered in Arabic numerals. Gorman was known to use Roman Numerals to denote small-batch impressions separate from the standard (usually larger) run of prints as well as his artist or trial proofs.

This is a large lithograph, measuring about 36” wide and about 26” tall, without the frame. It is framed in a solid wood frame with a gilded finish. It is under a textile mat recessed into the frame so that the edges of the lithograph are not disguised through a technique known as "floating." The professional framing, museum glass, and matting alone are impressive examples of mid-1980s style and workmanship which respects the integrity of the piece and its esteemed creator.

Gorman’s work has been featured in many major museums and his skill, use of color, the shapes he produced, and the subject matter of his work made him a modern master. This piece is a near pristine example of his work and it’s limited run and relatively early date for this subject makes it a highly desirable piece.

The Western Graphics Workshop offers a suggested retail price of $4,400 for unframed prints from the 1988 "Arabic numeral" run of "Anasazi Jar" - which had a much larger number of impressions (200) than this earlier "Roman Numeral" run.

Roman Numeral runs are often valued slightly higher by collectors because they are less common. In this case, the Roman Numeral run dates two years earlier than the larger run for which Western Graphics has a comparable suggested retail price. The date of this print coincides with significant milestones in Gorman's life and career that make this Roman Numeral edition even more appealing to collectors.

That year, in 1986, Gorman opened his Taos, NM Navajo Gallery after deciding that "the Navajo Gallery would host his annual Indian Market Exhibition in Taos, instead of in a Santa Fe gallery". Also in 1986, Gorman was recognized by Harvard University for his contributions to art and Native American culture. One alumnus Southwestern art expert noted Gorman was "the most established artist in the Southwest since Georgia O'Keefe died."

There are currently no comparable sales for Roman Numeral runs of "Anasazi Jar" available. That and the professional framing and floating mat style of this item suggest it is comparatively rare and valued at a premium. See less