Andy Warhol Giant Panda (FS II.295) For Sale

Giant Panda is an electric screenprint, which is part of Andy Warhol’s 1983 Endangered Species portfolio. The portfolio consists of 10 equally vibrant portraits of animals, all of which were placed on the endangered species list. The portfolio was commissioned in 1983 by the New-York gallerists turned environmental activists Ronald and Frayda Feldman. It comes just ten years after President Richard Nixon signed the Endangered Species Act, a landmark legislation in terms of animal welfare.  

The print depicts a Giant Panda, its body, eyes and ears rendered in a fluorescent red rather than a Panda’s usual and recognisable black markings. The red is complimented beautifully by splashes of yellow (perhaps a nod to the Panda’s native China), pink, and blue that underscore the body of the panda. The panda’s head is left white, ad it seems almost helpless, unable to stop the somewhat violent shade of red swallow it whole perhaps a metaphor for deforestation The ultra-vibrant colours and splashes of colour show the advancement in Warhol’s screen printing technique. The Panda is seen as emblematic of China, native to South Central China, and due to Chinese conservation efforts is no longer classed as endangered. Unlike some other prints from this series that depict a natural environment behind the animal, such as African Elephant or Pine Barrens Tree Frog, the panda is placed on a completely white background, Warhol’s artistic choice to remove the panda from its natural context elevates the Panda from a mere animal to a celebrity status, as it is reminiscent of his other work, such as his Marilyn series or Liz Taylor series. This decision of Warhol’s, who was seen as the epitome of celebrity narcissism and popular culture, to use endangered species as subject matter shows a different side to Warhol, one that is more anthropological and charitable. He draws attention to the plight of these animals by inadvertently suggesting they are as culturally important as any other kind of popular culture icon, whether that be Marilyn Monroe, or a mere soup can. The series is one which exemplifies Warhol’s technical ability as an artist, and his ability to bring awareness to important social causes.

Buy Andy Warhol Giant Panda (F & S II.295)

Andipa Editions, as part of Andipa, have been at the forefront of the Warhol market for over 20 years. To enquire about buying  Giant Panda (F & S II.295) by Andy Warhol, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371.

Sell Giant Panda (F & S II.295) by Andy Warhol

With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Andy Warhol Giant Panda (F & S II.295) 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 Giant Panda (F & S II.295) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.