This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/30/2013
Considered one of the top "pop" artists in the world, Steve Kaufman's silk-screened canvases should instantly bring to mind the work of the most famous pop artist of all time, Andy Warhol. Kaufman would go on to learn from Warhol as a mentor for nearly 10 years completing un-finished work for some of Warhol’s clients as they couldn’t even tell the difference between Koufman’s & Warhol’s work.
In 1996, Kaufman was commissioned to create a limited edition series of Muhammad Ali portraits titled "The Greatest." This was to commemorate at that time, Cassius Clay’s gold metal victory in 1960 & the lighting of the torch in Atlanta to celebrate the 1996 Summer Games. Kaufman created each print individually with a combination of silk screening and hand-painted touches. This unique 38” by 38” screen-print is expertly hand-embellished by the renowned artist with brush strokes evident when viewing from a short distance. This example is one of only 50 Artist Proof (A.P) versions known in the world. With Artist Proof’s belonging to the artist themselves and not part of the licensed limited edition which is owned by the contracting party, these examples are exceedingly rare & desirable. Adding to the allure of this piece is the signature by Muhammad Ali, adding his birth name “AKA Cassius Clay” along with his typical signature. Cassius Clay signatures are without a doubt much more collectible & scarce, especially post Parkinson’s in 1984. A truly unique Muhammad Ali piece suitable for any boxing or art collector. A full letter of authenticity is provided by PSA/DNA.