Andy Warhol The Shadow (F & S II.267) For Sale

The Shadow is a part of Andy Warhol’s 1981 Myths series. Famously, Warhol was lured to the glamour and extravagance of bygone Hollywood. He created a variety of famous portraits, including images of Mick Jagger and Marilyn Monroe. But his collection of myths deviates much further from his usual oeuvre. Even though the subjects of his prints are well-known cultural icons around the world, they are derived from famous fairy tales, folklore, and allegorical themes that have all been extensively publicised by the media. However, this piece is unlike the rest; it features Warhol himself.

The cult of celebrity and self-image and identity are two of Warhol's most recurring themes, which are combined in The Shadow. In his self-portrait, Warhol assumes the role of "The Shadow," a masked vigilante battling crime in 1930s New York and the lead character of an American radio series that ran from 1937 to 1954. Although Warhol does not wear The Shadow's black cloak or broad-rimmed hat, the lighting in this self-portrait sketch is such that a large shadow is thrown across his profile. The drawing is based on a photograph of Warhol in this role. Based on this image, Warhol then created a straightforward, stylized line drawing. An extended shadow hovers menacingly behind the artist, who is shown in the print staring blankly to the side with his lips open in a double portrait. His black shadow fills the remaining space in the photograph, with his face appearing on the right in intense red washes that are powerful yet only take up one-third of the frame. Warhol and his shadow are further separated by the sharp line that divides them; it's almost as if Warhol's identity were divided into two parts, one depicted in an eye catching, bold red and the other in a bleak grey.

Although the artist never revealed the deeper meaning of the piece, some people theorise that the dramatic shadow stands in for his inner personality, which is at odds with his cryptic and enigmatic public character. Similar to the radio crime-fighter who assumes multiple identities, Warhol keeps his true identity and personality hidden from the public. Through Shadow, Warhol makes a bold statement about his status in American popular culture, as he inscribes himself into his pantheon of American idols and icons. Through this series, Warhol shows that anybody, real or not, can be a star, and be loved by all, whether good or evil.

Buy Andy Warhol The Shadow (F & S II.267)

Andipa Editions, as part of Andipa, have been at the forefront of the Warhol market for over 20 years. To enquire about buying  The Shadow (F & S II.267) by Andy Warhol, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371.

Sell The Shadow (F & S. II 267) by Andy Warhol

With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Andy Warhol The Shadow (F & S II.267) 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 The Shadow (F & S II.267) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.