Print Guide: David Hockney Viewing a Prison Scene (M.C.A.T 21) For Sale: David Hockney's Viewing a Prison Scene (1963) print guide. Learn about value, edition details, and how to buy or sell this Hockney print with Andipa Editions. See price and availability below

  • Hockney Viewing a Prison Scene

    David Hockney Viewing a Prison Scene (M.C.A.T 21)

    The Election Campaign (with Dark Message) is a signed and numbered etching by David Hockney from his influential sixteen-print series A Rake’s Progress. Inspired by the satirical narrative cycle created by William Hogarth, Hockney reimagines the eighteenth-century moral tale within the social and political landscape of 1960s America. Unlike many prints in the series, this composition moves away from the autobiographical protagonist and instead focuses on the spectacle of political campaigning. Through bold graphic text and symbolic imagery, Hockney explores themes of persuasion, power, and public rhetoric within the context of modern democratic culture.

     

    Artist: David Hockney
    Title: Viewing a Prison Scene 
    Year: 1963
    Catalogue Raisonné:     Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, David Hockney Prints 1954–1977: A Catalogue Raisonné, (M.C.A.T. 115)
    Medium: Etching aquatint 1 zinc plate
    Edition:  Edition of 50 TP, signed and numbered in pencil lower right/left
    Size: 49.0 x 61.0cm (19.2 x 24 inches)
    Printer:  
    Publisher:  

     

    Availability: Not currently available.

    If you're looking to acquire this print, click below:

  • About David Hockney Viewing a Prison Scene

    In The Election Campaign (with Dark Message), Hockney shifts attention from personal narrative to political symbolism. Dominating the composition is a bright red speech bubble proclaiming “Vote Primary Day, 7th September,” followed by a string of “etc., etc., etc.,” which humorously critiques the repetitive and exaggerated language of campaign rhetoric. In stark contrast, a second speech bubble is heavily blacked out, suggesting hidden agendas or unspoken truths behind public messaging. Two shadowy figures stand below, listening intently to the unseen speaker, representing anonymous voters within the political process. By omitting the familiar ‘Rake’ character, David Hockney broadens the narrative beyond individual experience to address wider questions about persuasion, authority, and the influence of political discourse within modern society.

  • Current Availability

    David Hockney's Viewing a Prison Scene is not currently available. 
     

    Would you like Andipa to source this artwork for you?

  • Are you interested to see other available artworks by Hockney? 

  • Viewing a Prison Scene

    Edition Notes: 

    Viewing a Prison Scene, was published in an edition of 50 TP, signed and numbered in pencil lower left/right. Generally, proofs and standard edition examples can differ in market value depending on rarity and condition. 

     

    Signature:

    The print is signed and numbered in pencil lower left/right. The presence and clarity of the signature is an important factor and feature in authentication and value assessment.

     

    Condition:

    Given the age and rarity of TViewing a Prison Scene, condition is a critical factor in determining value. Each example we handle is carefully examined for foxing, time-staining, handling marks, edge wear, or tears, all of which can impact desirability and price.

     

    Provenance:

    Where possible, provenance is researched and documented: exhibition history, collection records, and publication references can significantly enhance confidence and value for collectors.

     

    Pricing and Value Guidance:

    Due to scarcity and private market activity, prices for David Hockney's Viewing a Prison Scene, can vary widely. As a general guide, values are influenced by: overall condition; edition size; whether it's signed; proof versus standard edition; provenance; and current market demand for Hockney prints. 

  • Andipa is here to help guide and assist you; to ensure that your journey in acquiring art is an enjoyable and explorative one.

    FAQs

    Is Viewing a Prison Scene David Hockney's first print?

    No, Viewing a Prison Scene is not David Hockney's first print. It is an early plate from his 16-part etching series A Rake's Progress (published in 1963), inspired by his first trip to New York

     

    Is Viewing a Prison Scene signed by David Hockney?

    The print is signed in pencil lower left/right.

     

    How rare is David Hockney's Viewing a Prison Scene?

    David Hockney's Viewing a Prison Scene is a rare, highly desirable etching and aquatint with a limited edition of 50 TP.

     

    Can Andipa Editions source Viewing a Prison Scene?

    Yes. We regularly source this print for collectors through our private and trusted network.

     

    How much is David Hockney's Viewing a Prison Scene worth?

    Values vary based on condition, edition type, and provenance. Please do contact Andipa Editions for current market guidance; we'd be delighted to assist you.

  • Every artwork begins with a story. Every collection begins with a conversation. We invite you to begin yours with Andipa, for generations to come.

    Sell a David Hockney Viewing a Prison Scene  Print

    If you own an original Viewing a Prison Scene, print by David Hockney and are considering selling, Andipa Editions would be delighted to assist and present it to our collectors on your behalf. We offer confidential, no-obligation valuations based on current market conditions and can advise on the most appropriate route to market; handling authentication, marketing, and negotiation on your behalf and support this collaborative selling journey at every step.

     

    Enquire about Selling

    Buy a David Hockney Viewing a Prison Scene Print with Andipa Editions

    Andipa Editions has six decades of experience advising collectors across the world on the acquisition of important prints by Andy Warhol. If Viewing a Prison Scene  is not currently available, we can actively source this work privately, conduct full due diligence, prepare condition reports, and manage all logistics, including framing, insured shipping, and international delivery to ensure it reaches you safely and smoothly.

     

    Click to see available works