Rare C. 1960s Tony Mafia Jewish Figures Etching Artist Proof Signed Framed

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Rare Original Tony Mafia Jewish-Themed Etching — Circa 1960s, Artist Proof

Offered is a rare original etching by Tony Mafia … Read more Rare Original Tony Mafia Jewish-Themed Etching — Circa 1960s, Artist Proof

Offered is a rare original etching by Tony Mafia (1931–1999) depicting Jewish figures in his distinctive expressive and highly detailed linear style. The composition features a bearded Jewish man in the foreground, with a second figure appearing behind him. The intricate cross-hatching and spontaneous line work give the image a powerful, almost intimate character.

Of particular interest to collectors, this impression is an Artist Proof (A/P), hand-inscribed in pencil in the lower-left margin and signed by Tony Mafia. Artist Proof impressions were traditionally produced outside the numbered edition and were generally retained by or made available through the artist.

This is an especially appealing work for collectors of Jewish art, Judaica, mid-century works on paper, original etchings, and Tony Mafia’s work.

About the Artist:

Tony Mafia (1931–1999) was the professional name of American artist Robert Lee Alderson, a highly unconventional and versatile artist whose work encompassed painting, sculpture, printmaking, illustration, and murals.

Born in Chicago in 1931, Mafia studied art at the Art Institute of Chicago and later traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. During the 1960s, he became associated with the Los Angeles art and music scene and exhibited and created work in a variety of unconventional settings.

Mafia also spent time in Antwerp, Belgium, including the city’s Jewish quarter, where he became fascinated by the people and surroundings of the local Jewish community. During this period he produced a group of etchings depicting Jewish subjects. This work appears particularly interesting in that context and represents an uncommon aspect of Mafia’s artistic output.

His work has attracted collectors and has been exhibited internationally. Today, Tony Mafia’s art is sought after for its distinctive combination of expressive draftsmanship, symbolism, and the fascinating cultural history surrounding his career.

Artwork Details:

Artist: Tony Mafia (Robert Lee Alderson), 1931–1999
Date: Circa 1960s
Medium: Original etching on paper
Subject: Jewish figures
Edition: Artist Proof (A/P), pencil-inscribed lower left
Signature: Signed in pencil by the artist
Frame Size: Approximately 10.5” × 8.5”
Opening / Visible Artwork: Approximately 7” × 4.5”
Framing: Newly reframed
Framing Materials: Acid-free archival materials

Condition:

Very good vintage/original condition. The etching has been newly reframed using acid-free materials and is ready for display. There may be minor signs of age consistent with a vintage work on paper. Please review all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description.

A rare and compelling Artist Proof by Tony Mafia, combining Jewish subject matter with the artist’s distinctive mid-century graphic style. An excellent opportunity for collectors of Tony Mafia, Jewish art, Judaica, and original works on paper. See less