92

Betye Saar

b. 1926

"Sentimental Souvenir #100," 1987

Acrylic on carved wood
Signed and dated in ink to underside: B Saar; titled in a stamp and inscribed: Philadelphia, PA 1987 / Betye Saar
13.75" H x 6" W x 4.75" D

  • Exhibited:
    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, "Sentimental Sojourn: Strangers and Souvenirs," August 21 - October 18, 1987
  • Notes:
    This lot is accompanied by a signed and inscribed hardcover book titled "Colored: Consider the Rainbow," a pamphlet "Betye Saar: Connections: Site Installations," with dated gift inscription from the artist, and a birthday card inscribed by the artist.

    Betye Saar: Assembling History, Challenging Perceptions

    In the pantheon of American artists who have shaped the cultural landscape of the 20th and 21st centuries, Betye Saar stands as a formidable presence. Born in 1926 in Los Angeles, Saar's artistic journey has been one of constant evolution, marked by a deep engagement with identity, history, and the power of objects to tell stories.

    Saar's oeuvre, spanning over six decades, is characterized by her masterful use of assemblage—a technique that allows her to weave complex narratives through the juxtaposition of found objects, cultural artifacts, and personal mementos. Her work serves as a bridge between the personal and the political, offering a nuanced commentary on the African American experience, spirituality, and the enduring impact of historical injustices.

    The 1970s marked a pivotal moment in Saar's career, as she began to gain widespread recognition for her thought-provoking pieces that challenged racial stereotypes. It was during this period that Saar honed her distinctive visual language, incorporating elements of mysticism, family history, and social critique into her assemblages.

    Our collection features two significant works from Saar's oeuvre. The 1978 piece exemplifies her exploration of personal narratives and collective memory. In this work, Saar likely employs her characteristic blend of nostalgia and social commentary, using found photographs and objects to create a layered meditation on identity and heritage.

    The 1987 work represents a period of expansion in Saar's artistic practice. As her reputation grew, so did the scale and complexity of her installations. This piece may reflect her increasing interest in global influences and the intersection of technology and spirituality—themes that began to emerge in her work during the 1980s.

    Saar's enduring influence on contemporary art is evident in her presence in over 60 museums worldwide. Her ability to transform everyday objects into powerful statements on race, gender, and politics continues to resonate with audiences and inspire new generations of artists.

    The two works in our collection offer a unique opportunity to trace the development of Saar's artistic vision across nearly a decade. They stand as testament to her role as a visionary artist whose work continues to challenge, provoke, and enlighten, making them invaluable additions to any discerning collection of American art.
  • Condition: Figure lacking headpiece, with glue remnants to top of head. The carved wood support with four breaks in the openwork, two with glued repairs. With scattered scuffs, nicks, and scratches commensurate with age.

    Condition reports are offered as a courtesy and are typically published in Moran's catalogue or can be made available upon request. The absence of a condition report does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of others. Buyers are responsible for determining to their own satisfaction the true nature and condition of any lot prior to bidding. Though buyers are not legally required to inspect lots prior to purchase, failure to do so may constitute a waiver of complaint that an item was not delivered in a condition equal to the existent condition at the auction.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipping. As a courtesy to buyers, Moran provides a list of preferred shippers who are in the business of transporting antiques and works of art. Buyers are responsible for arranging their own shipping estimates and deliveries. Moran, in its sole discretion and as a courtesy to buyers, may arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured, and forwarded by a third-party shipper at the request, expense, and risk of the buyer. In circumstances where Moran arranges for such third-party services, Moran may apply an administration charge of 15% of that service fee. Moran assumes no responsibility for acts or omissions in such packing or shipping by other packers or carriers, even if recommended by Moran. Moran also assumes no responsibility for any damage to picture frames or to the glass therein.

November 19, 2024 12:00 PM PST
Monrovia, CA, US

John Moran Auctioneers

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 $499,999 $25,000
$500,000 $999,999 $50,000
$1,000,000 + $100,000