Andy Warhol Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands (F & S. II.338) For Sale

The Reigning Queens portfolio was published in 1985, and features sixteen prints featuring four formidable ruling Queens: Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, and Queen Ntombi Twala of Swaziland. Each queen is represented in four prints, with the repetition reminiscent of a stamp. The ‘Royal Edition’ of Reigning Queens incorporates diamond dust in each print, adding an element of luxury and glamour. The distinctly un-American nature of Royalty provoked outrage from Warhol when George Mulder organised the first exhibition of Reigning Queens in New York in June 1985, saying "I had my opening at Leo Castelli’s to go to, of the Reigning Queens portfolio that I just hate George Mulder for showing here in America. [It was] supposed to be only for Europe—nobody here cares about royalty and it’ll be another bad review."

Queen Beatrix ruled the Netherlands for 33 years, after her inauguration in 1980 after her mother abdicated the throne. It was well known that Queen Elizabeth of England and Queen Beatrix were close friends, acting as female symbols of patriotism and strength to their subjects after two traumatic world wars.  Therefore, when this screenprint was created, Beatrix was only five years into her reign. This demonstrates how Warhol is able to recognise important moments in popular culture, and his ability to capture the zeitgeist of an era. Throughout his artistic oeuvre, Warhol often fixated on celebrities, whether they be political or fictional. Therefore depicting royalty, the most untouchable and prolific public figures of all, seems quintessentially Warhol.

In this print, Beatrix’s hair and clothing are depicted in a wash of royal blue, which draws attention to her pale face, a recognisable face which would be repeated across coins and stamps. Beatrix was one of the richest Royals in the world, and Warhol captures her opulence, emphasising her dazzling tiara, brooch and earrings that contrast against the blue and brown shades of the background. Conducive to his typical style of this period, Warhol transposed colourful blocks of colour over the Queen’s portrait, as she smiles regally at the viewer. An air of mystique exudes from this screenprint, emphasising the untouchable nature of the Royal Family. This portfolio is one of power, wealth and status, intertwined with irrefutable glamour.

Buy Andy Warhol Reigning Queens (F & S II.338)

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With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Reigning Queens (F & S II.338) 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 Reigning Queens (F & S II.338) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.