Project for the Arc de Triomphe - Paris by Christo (1970)

€5,200.00 Location: Mechelen

Description

This rare, signed, limited-edition color lithograph on handmade Arches paper by renowned artist Christo presents one of his earliest conceptual designs for the wrapping of the Arc de Triomphe. The work incorporates an authentic piece of fabric, lending it both tactile depth and notable historical resonance. The piece measures 65 × 50 cm and has a depth of 3.5 cm.

Christo (1935–2020) became world-famous for his large outdoor art projects, which he created together with his wife Jeanne-Claude. He was known for temporarily wrapping or transforming buildings and landscapes in striking ways. Well-known examples include The Pont Neuf Wrapped (Paris, 1985), The Umbrellas (Japan/USA, 1991), and The Gates (New York, 2005).

His work reflects his interest in temporariness, materials, and reimagining public spaces. Although his projects required extensive planning, technical skill, and bold ideas, the same qualities can be seen in his smaller works on paper. Through collage, drawing, and printmaking, he revealed the concepts and preparations behind his monumental installations.

The Arc de Triomphe project, conceived in 1961 with Jeanne-Claude, was finally realized posthumously in 2021, when the iconic Parisian monument was transformed into a temporary installation that captivated an estimated six million visitors over the course of 16 days.

Printed by Atelier Clot, Bramsen et Georges, Paris.
Published by Jacques Putman, Paris.
The work has recently been reframed in plexiglass by a renowned Christo specialist. 

A remarkable collector’s piece that embodies Christo’s enduring legacy and artistic ingenuity.