Andy Warhol Mammy (F & S II.262) For Sale

The essence of a character with a distinct American pop culture background is captured in this print. Warhol create the likeness of Mammy, a clichéd African-American character in literature and film, with bold, expressive lines. Mammy, originating from the South of the United States in the 19th century, personifies the extremely harmful stereotype of Black women as submissive and nurturing carers. This caricature which has gained popularity across a variety of media platforms, obscures the brutal reality of slavery and racial prejudice while maintaining a romanticised vision of the South during the antebellum era. This figure is well-known from Harriet Beecher Stowe's anti-slavery book Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852) and Victor Fleming’s Civil War drama Gone With the Wind (1939); Warhol's portrayal highlights its problematic past.

Mammy, as painted by Warhol, has emerald and turquoise eyes against a stark black background. Her tremendous yellow hoops earrings catch the light and draw attention to her in the otherwise gloomy image. Additional vitality to the image is provided by a crimson headband and strong red lips that match.  Completely created in subdued gestural lines, the figure is placed against a simple black background. Mammy disappears into the shadows, in contrast to several of Warhol's works that feature vibrant characters against equally vivid backdrops, including The Witch and The Shadow. Sylvia Williams, a former head of the National Museum of African Art at the Smithsonian Institution, was selected by Warhol to sit and appear as Mammy for the piece. View Warhol’s complete Myths portfolio.

Buy Andy Warhol Mammy (F & S II.262)

Andipa Editions, as part of Andipa, have been at the forefront of the Warhol market for over 20 years. To enquire about buying  Mammy (F & S II.262) by Andy Warhol, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371.

Sell Mammy (F & S. II 262) by Andy Warhol

With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Andy Warhol Mammy (F & S II.262) print. Straight-forward and stress-free, we manage the process on your behalf and help to maximise your return. For a complimentary valuation of your Mammy (F & S II.262) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.