Print Guide: David Hockney The Drinking Scene (M.C.A.T 18) For Sale : David Hockney's The Drinking 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 The Drinking Scene

    David Hockney The Drinking Scene (M.C.A.T 18)

    The Drinking Scene (1961–63) is a signed and numbered etching by David Hockney and forms plate four of his influential sixteen-part series A Rake’s Progress. Inspired by the eighteenth-century narrative prints of William Hogarth, Hockney reinterprets the moral tale through the experiences of a young artist exploring New York City for the first time in 1961. Created while studying at the Royal College of Art, the series blends autobiography, satire, and social observation. Through expressive line and symbolic imagery, Hockney charts a journey of discovery, freedom, and vulnerability within the vibrant nightlife and cultural landscape of early-1960s America.

     

    Artist: David Hockney
    Title: The Drinking 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
    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 Drinking Scene

    In The Drinking Scene, Hockney captures a lively moment set within a New York bar, reflecting the excitement and liberation the artist experienced in the city’s nightlife. Two figures sit together beneath the bar’s awning, appearing absorbed in animated conversation, while two additional faces confront the viewer directly. Their closeness creates a slightly ambiguous, almost conspiratorial presence. Bold graphic elements, including a striking red “BAR” sign and directional arrow, punctuate the otherwise monochrome composition and guide the viewer’s gaze across the scene. The theatrical curtain-like awning hints at staged performance, foreshadowing Hockney’s later work designing sets for productions such as The Rake’s Progress by Igor Stravinsky. Through layered symbolism and simplified forms, David Hockney explores themes of intimacy, belonging, and desire within the social spaces of urban life.

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  • David Hockney The Drinking Scene

    Edition Notes: 

    The Drinking 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 The Drinking 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 The Drinking 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. 

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    FAQs

    Is The Drinking Scene David Hockney's first print?

    No, The Drinking 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 The The Drinking Scene signed by David Hockney?

    The print is signed in pencil lower left/right.

     

    How rare is David Hockney's The Drinking Scene?

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

     

    Can Andipa Editions source The Drinking Scene privately?

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

     

    How much is David Hockney's The Drinking 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.

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    Sell a David Hockney The Drinking Scene Print

    If you own an original The Drinking 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.

     

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    Buy a David Hockney The Drinking 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 The Drinking 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.

     

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