Print Guide: David Hockney The Wallet Begins to Empty (M.C.A.T 23) For Sale: David Hockney's The Wallet Begins to Empty (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 The Wallet Begins to Empty

    David Hockney The Wallet Begins to Empty (M.C.A.T 23)

    The Wallet Begins to Empty (1963) is a signed etching by David Hockney and forms part of his influential sixteen-print series A Rake’s Progress. Inspired by the narrative cycle created by William Hogarth, Hockney reinterprets the eighteenth-century moral tale through the experiences of a young artist navigating New York in the early 1960s. Within the series, this composition marks a significant turning point in the narrative. The optimistic curiosity of earlier prints begins to give way to disillusionment, as Hockney explores themes of social exclusion, identity, and the psychological pressures faced by outsiders in a complex urban environment.

     

     
    Artist: David Hockney
    Title: The Wallet Begins to Empty
    Year: 1963
    Catalogue Raisonné:     Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, David Hockney Prints 1954–1977: A Catalogue Raisonné, (M.C.A.T. 23)
    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.

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  • About David Hockney The Wallet Begins to Empty

    In The Wallet Begins to Empty, David Hockney presents a pivotal moment of decline within A Rake’s Progress. The central figure, often interpreted as the ‘Rake’ or Hockney’s semi-autobiographical protagonist, appears dejected as he descends a large staircase after being turned away by a well-dressed couple positioned above him. Their elevated stance, beside a glowing obelisk-like monument, symbolises social authority and exclusion, reinforcing the outsider status of the protagonist. The composition is deliberately sparse and surreal, heightening the emotional tension and sense of alienation. Hockney’s restrained monochrome palette is punctuated by dramatic red ink forms, a recurring motif throughout the series that conveys urgency, passion, and psychological turmoil. Together, these elements emphasise the growing despair of the narrative as the protagonist moves toward the series’ darker conclusion.

     

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  • The Wallet Begins to Empty

    Edition Notes: 

    The Wallet Begins to Empty, 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 The Wallet Begins to Empty, 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 The Wallet Begins to Empty, 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. 

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    FAQs

    Is The Wallet Begins to Empty David Hockney's first print?

    No, The Wallet Begins to Empty 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 The Wallet Begins to Empty signed by David Hockney?

    The print is signed in pencil lower right.

     

    How rare is David Hockney's The Wallet Begins to Empty?

    David Hockney's The Wallet Begins to Empty is a rare, highly desirable etching and aquatint with a limited edition of 50 TP.

     

    Can Andipa Editions source The Wallet Begins to Empty privately?

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

     

    How much is David Hockney's The Wallet Begins to Empty  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.

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    Sell a David Hockney The Wallet Begins to Empty Print

    If you own an original The Wallet Begins to Empty, 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.

     

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    Buy a David Hockney The Wallet Begins to Empty 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 The Wallet Begins to Empty  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.

     

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