Andy Warhol Queen Margrethe II of Denmark (F & S. II.345) For Sale

In 1985, Andy Warhol released his ‘Reigning Queens’ portfolio, a collection of sixteen prints depicting four iconic 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 featured in four different prints, rendered in Warhol's signature vibrant pop art style. The opulence of these portraits is heightened in the 'Royal Editions,' where each print is adorned with diamond dust, adding a layer of luxury to the depictions.
Warhol had originally planned for the portfolio to debut in the United Kingdom, anticipating a greater appreciation from a European audience familiar with royalty. However, the initial exhibition took place in New York, organized by George Mulder, much to Warhol's dismay. In his diary, Warhol expressed his frustration: "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."
This screenprint features Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, a prominent figure in the Danish Royal Family. She reigned from 1972 until her abdication in 2024, marking exactly 52 years on the throne and making her Denmark's second-longest reigning monarch. At the time of her birth, Danish succession laws from the 1850s permitted only males to ascend the throne. However, a pivotal constitutional amendment in 1953 enabled female succession in the absence of male siblings. This was further modernized in 2009 with the adoption of absolute primogeniture, allowing the firstborn child, regardless of gender, to inherit the throne. This nuanced history of female succession in Denmark enriches Warhol’s depiction of Margrethe, adding layers of significance to his portrayal.
This screenprint plays into the mystique and intrigue of the untouchable queens. Margrethe is depicted in profile, reminiscent of her likeness on coins and stamps, as Warhol’s screen-printing technique mirrors the mass production methods used for such items. This print features soft hues of pink, green, and red, imparting a distinctly feminine quality in contrast to Warhol's portraits of male figures like Chairman Mao. Delicate blue hand-drawn lines highlight her hair and jewels, emphasizing her regal wealth and glamour.

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With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Reigning Queens (F & S II.345) 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.345) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.