
American Indian Theme
6 works

Painting On Canvas (C. 202), 1984
Woodcut, lithograph, screenprint and collage in colors
33 x 28 in 83.8 x 71.1 cm
Roy Lichtenstein's 1984 print series titled "Paintings" is a remarkable exploration of the interplay between representation and abstraction, a theme that permeates much of his work. This series is particularly notable for its self-referential nature, as Lichtenstein delves into the art of painting itself, both as a medium and as a concept. By employing his signature pop art techniques—bold lines, primary colors, and the use of Ben-Day dots—Lichtenstein creates a dialogue with the history of art, while simultaneously commenting on contemporary visual culture. In the "Paintings" series, Lichtenstein revisits some of the motifs and subjects that have characterized his work since the 1960s, such as everyday objects, landscapes, and figures drawn from comic strips and advertisements. However, what sets this series apart is its overt engagement with the styles and subjects of classical art and modernism. Each piece in the series is a sophisticated pastiche that incorporates elements of famous artworks, ranging from the impressionists to modern masters, all reimagined within Lichtenstein's distinct pop art vocabulary. One of the hallmarks of this series is its exploration of the brushstroke as a symbol of artistic expression and the painter's gesture. Lichtenstein abstracts the brushstroke, transforming it into a stylized, iconic element within his compositions. This not only serves as a parody of the gestural painting of abstract expressionism but also raises questions about authenticity, originality, and the mechanization of art in a mass-media society. By rendering the brushstroke—a traditional marker of the artist's hand—in a highly stylized, almost industrial manner, Lichtenstein blurs the line between handmade art and commercial production. The "Paintings" series also reflects Lichtenstein's interest in playing with perspectives and dimensions. He often incorporates elements such as frames within frames, paintings within paintings, and shadows that suggest depth, further complicating the viewer's perception of space and reality. These meta-pictorial strategies invite viewers to consider the act of viewing art as a layered experience, one that involves constant negotiation between surface and depth, image and meaning. Moreover, Lichtenstein's choice to title the series "Paintings," while employing the medium of printmaking, underscores his ongoing investigation into the nature of art reproduction and the status of the original in the age of mechanical reproduction. This choice highlights the tension between the unique, auratic work of art and its mass-produced counterparts, a central concern in Lichtenstein's oeuvre and a reflection of broader debates within contemporary art. In conclusion, Roy Lichtenstein's 1984 "Paintings" series stands as a testament to his intellectual depth, wit, and enduring impact on the art world. By blending high art with popular culture, and challenging traditional distinctions between different artistic genres, Lichtenstein continues to provoke and inspire, ensuring his place as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.


Roy Lichtenstein prints for sale and Roy Lichtenstein paintings for sale at Guy Hepner Gallery, New York. Our inventory spans lithographs, screenprints, and unique works from his most collected series: Brushstrokes, Reflections, Nudes, Interiors, Haystacks, Cathedral, Entablature, and American Indian Theme — all with full provenance and Corlett catalogue raisonné references. We also acquire Lichtenstein. Free valuations available.
Roy Lichtenstein (1923–1997) is the defining figure of American Pop Art and one of the most actively traded artists on the post-war and contemporary market. His bold graphic language — Ben-Day dots, black outlines, primary palettes drawn from comic books and advertising — is among the most instantly recognisable in twentieth-century art. Born in New York City, he was exhibited by Leo Castelli Gallery from 1962 and worked until his death in September 1997, producing one of the most extensively documented print catalogues of any artist of his generation.
Roy Lichtenstein art for sale spans signed prints, paintings, and unique works across his full catalogue. His most collected categories: signed and numbered screenprints and lithographs from the major series, unique works on paper, and large-format canvas paintings. The auction benchmark was set when Masterpiece (1962) sold for $165 million in a private transaction in 2017, and Nurse (1964) achieved $95.4 million at Christie's New York in 2015. Major print series regularly achieve $100,000–$2 million at Sotheby's, Christie's, and Phillips.
The most liquid and accessible segment of his market. Working with Gemini G.E.L., Petersburg Press, and Castelli Graphics, Lichtenstein produced lithographs, screenprints, woodcuts, and relief prints across three decades. Key series at Guy Hepner:
Signed impressions command significant premiums over unsigned editions. Corlett catalogue raisonné reference and publisher's certificate documentation are essential for any acquisition.
Roy Lichtenstein original art for sale — unique paintings on canvas — represents the rarest category of his output. Major early canvases are primarily in institutional collections; secondary market appearances are concentrated at evening sales at Christie's, Sotheby's, and Phillips. Works on paper and preparatory drawings offer compelling opportunities for collectors seeking unique works with strong Lichtenstein provenance at more accessible price points.
Guy Hepner actively acquires Roy Lichtenstein prints, paintings, and works on paper from private collections. If you are looking to sell Roy Lichtenstein prints or seeking a current market valuation, contact our New York gallery for a confidential, no-obligation assessment. We handle all series including Brushstrokes, Reflections, Nudes, Haystacks, Cathedral, American Indian Theme, and Interiors.
Interested in adding Roy Lichtenstein to your collection? Contact Guy Hepner Gallery at 177 Tenth Avenue, New York to discuss current inventory and acquisition strategy.