Edition of 250, plus 26 AP (artist proofs) signed and lettered A-Z on verso. From the portfolio of 10 screenprints.

In 1967, Andy Warhol released his Marilyn Monroe Portfolio, a collection of ten silkscreen prints showcasing the iconic Hollywood actress in his distinctive Pop Art style. This series stands among Warhol’s most valuable and recognizable works, reflecting his significant impact on 1960s culture. Known for elevating everyday American items like Campbell's soup cans to high art, Warhol also achieved notoriety for his celebrity portraits, which solidified his influence as a cultural icon.

The Marilyn Monroe Portfolio is particularly noteworthy for transforming Monroe into a timeless icon. Warhol's portrayal immortalises her, making her a symbol of Hollywood glamour and the alluring promise of success in the entertainment industry. By depicting Monroe as the embodiment of the superficial American Dream, Warhol captured the essence of 20th-century fame and the fantasy of American achievement. His focus on highly visible and marketable images underscores his acute understanding of what captivates the public’s imagination.

Monroe’s persona, commodified by the media, became more celebrated than her real-life self. She epitomises celebrity, cultural impact, and the American Dream, reflecting how Warhol’s art often blurred the lines between real and manufactured personas. In this way, Monroe became Warhol’s quintessential muse, perfectly aligning with his artistic philosophies centred on mass production and consumer culture.