Print Guide: David Hockney The Arrival (M.C.A.T 12) For Sale: David Hockney's The Arrival (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 Arrival

    David Hockney The Arrival (M.C.A.T 12) For Sale

    The Arrival is the opening etching from A Rake’s Progress (1961–63), a series by David Hockney inspired by the moral narrative of A Rake’s Progress by William Hogarth. Reimagining the eighteenth-century story in a modern context, Hockney presents the ‘Rake’ as a young artist arriving in New York City. The print marks the beginning of a journey filled with ambition, identity, and personal struggle. Combining autobiographical elements with symbolic imagery, Hockney transforms Hogarth’s moral tale into a contemporary exploration of self-discovery. As one of Hockney’s most recognised early etchings, the work introduces themes of freedom, aspiration, and uncertainty.

     

    Artist: David Hockney
    Title: The Arrival
    Year: 1963
    Catalogue Raisonné:     Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, David Hockney Prints 1954–1977: A Catalogue Raisonné, (M.C.A.T. 12)
    Medium: Etching aquatint 1 zinc plate
    Edition:  Edition of 50 TP, signed and numbered
    Size: 49.0 x 61.0 cm ( 19.3 x 24.0)
    Printer:  
    Publisher:  

     

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  • About David Hockney The Arrival

    Created while studying at the Royal College of Art, The Arrival reflects the moment when Hockney first began developing the narrative for A Rake’s Progress. The central figure, resembling the artist himself, walks along a rough path towards the iconic Empire State Building, symbolising opportunity and the promise of the American Dream. Carrying a briefcase and wearing wing-like imagery marked Flying Tyger, the character references both the airline Flying Tiger Line and the poem The Tyger by William Blake. Through these layered symbols, Hockney evokes the emotional tension of arrival and transformation. Dark shadows and dramatic marks introduce a sense of uncertainty, foreshadowing the struggles that unfold across the series as the protagonist navigates identity, freedom, and life in New York.

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  • The Arrival

    Edition Notes: 

    The Arrival was published in an edition of 50, 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 Arrival, 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 Arrival, 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 Arrival David Hockney's first print?

    The Arrival is not David Hockney's absolute first print, but it is the first print in his first major, celebrated series of etchings

     

    Is The Arrival signed by David Hockney?

    The print is signed in pencil lower left/right.

     

    How rare is David Hockney's The Arrival?

    David Hockney's The Arrival from A Rake's Progress (1961–1963) is considered highly rare and significant, as it is part of a limited edition of 50 sets. It is regarded as one of Hockney’s earliest and most important series of etchings, which helped establish his reputation in the 1960s.

     

    Can Andipa Editions source The Arrival privately?

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

     

    How much is David Hockney's The Arrival 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 Arrival Print

    If you own an original The Arrival 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 Arrival 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 Arrival  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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