Fire Gouache .Gouache, pigment, fixative, and fire. Signed and dated in the lower right. On firm, smooth Schöllershammer wove paper (with embossed stamp). 51 x 72.5 cm. , size of sheet. [EH].

• Beginning in 1959, Piene increasingly evoked associations with celestial bodies and cosmic forms in his “fire paintings” through circular, individual volumes.
• Through his unique method of creation, Piene elevates nature to the status of co-author of his works.
• From the heyday of ZERO.
LITERATURE: Kunsthaus Lempert, Auction 703/704 Modern Art, June 3-4, 1994, lot 861 (with ill.).

Private collection, Bavaria (1994, Lempertz)

In good condition. The sheet is slightly browned overall, somewhat more so along the edges. There are a few minor handling marks. The fire gouache shows fine gradations with a vividly colored center.