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Identification and Creation

Object Number
2006.143
People
Milton Avery, American (Altmar, NY 1885 - 1965 New York, NY)
Title
Three Fish
Classification
Prints
Work Type
print
Date
1950
Culture
American
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/315193

Physical Descriptions

Medium
Monotype and gouache on paper
Technique
Monotype
Dimensions
Sheet: 61 × 91.4 cm (24 × 36 in.)
Inscriptions and Marks
  • Signed: lower right in graphite pencil: Milton Avery / 1950

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Fogg Museum, Gift of Donald Ottenstein, Harvard College Class of 1942 in memory of Deborah Abelson
Copyright
© Milton Avery / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
Accession Year
2006
Object Number
2006.143
Division
Modern and Contemporary Art
Contact
am_moderncontemporary@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Commentary
Besides making paintings and drawings, Avery had always made prints-especially drypoints and woodcuts. After having a heart attack in 1950, the artist began making monotypes as a less strenuous alternative to painting. Between 1950 and 1956, he made well over 200 monotypes. His process was somewhat rudimentary. He applied oil washes to glass plates with brushes, rages, and even his fingers, and usually printed them with the back of a spoon. He also applied a base of turpentine on the glass to keep the paint from drying to quickly, causing the paint to puddle and pool in unpredictable ways. In this case, the murky pooling of the pigment serves as the perfect underwater environment in which to place the pastel-colored fish.

Verification Level

This record has been reviewed by the curatorial staff but may be incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For more information please contact the Division of Modern and Contemporary Art at am_moderncontemporary@harvard.edu