Framed in a black frame with a speckled sand colored mat
Framed in the USA
Framed Size: 27" x 17"
Image Size: 18" x 10"
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Ready to hang hardware included
Please Note: The image/paper may show minor, expected signs of wear due to age, which contribute to its vintage character. See accompanying photographs. It is in excellent condition. It has been newly and professionally framed, making it ready for display in any space.
The Drawing: This is an etching titled "Rossini" by the American satirical artist Charles Bragg (1931–2017). Bragg was known for his humorous and sometimes macabre depictions of celebrities and ordinary people, as seen in this caricature of the famous Italian composer. Gioachino Antonio Rossini (1792–1868) was a highly influential Italian composer of the late Classical and early Romantic eras, celebrated primarily for his operas.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Key biographical points:
Early Life & Influences: Born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1931, Bragg's early life was shaped by his Vaudeville performer parents, leading to a nomadic childhood. He attended New York's High School of Music & Art in Harlem and later the Art Students League, though he also worked various jobs like truck driver and stand-up comedian before fully committing to art.
Artistic Style & Themes: Bragg is best known for his satirical approach, which he applied across various mediums including painting, sculpture, and etching. His work frequently caricatured figures of authority (such as doctors, judges, and religious leaders) and explored the foibles of human nature with wit and a keen observational eye, often featuring a blend of humor, irony, and social commentary.
Career Highlights & Recognition: After settling in California and initially focusing on commissioned portraits, Bragg developed his distinctive satirical style, achieving significant acclaim. His works have been exhibited internationally in prestigious museums and galleries, and he received accolades such as the Gold Medal from the National Society of Illustrators. A PBS documentary, "Charles Bragg - One of a Kind," was made about him in 1986, and one of his lithographs even appeared in the 1992 film The Player.
Published Works: Beyond his visual art, Bragg also authored books, including "Charles Bragg: The Works! A Retrospective" (1999) and "Asylum Earth" (2013), further showcasing his unique perspective and writing talent.
Later Life: Charles Bragg passed away on January 9, 2017, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy as a master of social satire in the art word.