The lithographs of JeanMichel Basquiat offer a way to connect with the powerful energy and raw emotion of his work at a more accessible scale. Unlike his original paintings which can sell for millions Basquiat’s lithographs let collectors experience his bold symbolism, vivid colors, and iconic imagery through limitededition prints. As you explore Basquiat lithographs, you’ll encounter editions signed by the Estate, numbering from rare variants to more widely available reproductions. These works remain popular in galleries and auctions, often attracting strong demand from art lovers and investors alike.
What Is a Basquiat Lithograph?
JeanMichel Basquiat began exploring printmaking in the 1980s, using lithography to reproduce his instantly recognizable style onto paper. A lithograph is created by drawing on a flat surface usually stone or metal and then printing the image onto paper using a chemical process. Basquiat’s lithographs capture his expressive marks, text, and figures with a quality that feels almost as immediate as the original paintings. The Estate of JeanMichel Basquiat often produced limitededition runs, sometimes as few as 10 or up to 300 copies per image.
History and Editions
Basquiat’s first prints appeared in the early 1980s, during a time when his work was gaining prominence in New York’s art scene. The Estate later authorized more editions, including iconic pieces like The Fault of the Gold Tooth (1987) and False Teeth types, many issued in editions of 180 or 300. These were often signed on the plate and numbered showing the artist’s direct involvement even if produced after his passing.
Limited vs. Open Edition
- Limitededition lithographs are usually estateapproved, signed, and numbered, with edition sizes typically between 10 and 300.
- Open editions and posters may be reproduced without estate approval, often in higher quantities, and carry less market value.
- Collectors should look for certificate of authenticity and matching signatures or stamps from the Estate.
Price Ranges and Market Trends
While Basquiat’s original paintings now fetch tens of millions, his lithographs offer a lowercost entry into his work. Typical prices for estatesigned editions range from around $700 to $1,800 depending on rarity, size, and provenance. For example, a colorplate lithograph from 1984 might sell for around $350 when offered without estate authentication. Highend market prints like the rare silkscreen Untitled from 1983 have sold for over £1.95 million (USD ~$2.5 million) at Sotheby’s.
Collecting Basquiat Lithographs
Collecting lithographs is attractive for buyers who want Basquiat’s work in their collection without the immense cost of an original. Here are key steps for collectors:
Authentication and Editions
- Always confirm estate authorization and look for signatures on the plate or certificate.
- Lowernumbered editions (especially artist’s proofs) typically hold more value.
- Understand the difference between lithographs, screenprints, and offset posters.
Condition and Framing
The condition of paper, ink saturation, and original framing all impact value. Some prints are large such as the Back of the Neck massive paper print at the Brooklyn Museum and may require professional framing for preservation.
Provenance and Market Comparison
Provenance can significantly influence price. Prints sold through reputable galleries or with clear ownership history fetch better prices than unverified online listings. Market platforms like 1stDibs list estateverified prints between $700 and $1,800, while auction houses may list rarer items by catalogue.
Styles and Iconic Works
Many Basquiat lithographs feature recurring themes: skulls, crowns, abstracted figures, and text fragments. Notable lithographs include:
- False Teeth numbered estate edition, often around 300 copies.
- The Fault of the Gold Tooth vibrant chromolithograph from 1987, circa 180print edition.
- In This Case powerful estatesigned lithograph with bold line work.
Each carries Basquiat’s bold color, gestural marks, and layered iconography while allowing fans to enjoy the pieces in everyday spaces.
Where to Buy and Sell
Estateverified lithographs can be found at:
- Specialized art platforms like 1stDibs, offering authenticated prints from $700 to $1,800.
- Auction houses and websites like LiveAuctioneers, which list older estate prints for example, a 1984 colorplate lithograph listed in March 2025.
- Art galleries such as Taglialatella or HamiltonSelway, which feature newer estate print portfolios.
Collectors should compare prices, verify condition, and ask for paperwork before buying. Selling also relies on those elements estate stamps, condition, and market timing affect value.
Market Outlook and Trends
After a slower period in 2024, the Basquiat print market rebounded strongly in 2025, with auction prices showing renewed interest. Limitededition lithographs with estate backing remain popular among collectors, blending artistic value with relative affordability.
Future Value Considerations
- Rarer lithographs signed and numbered by the Estate typically rise over time.
- Remastered or newly released portfolios may attract interest, but authenticity is key.
- Cultural significance and current market trends (like interest in 1980s neoexpressionism) will influence prices.
Why Basquiat Lithographs Matter
Basquiat lithographs distill the raw essence of his groundbreaking work into an accessible format. They preserve his voice, symbols, and energy for a wider audience. For collectors, they offer a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in art history New York’s postpunk, graffitiinspired 1980s scene.
JeanMichel Basquiat lithographs offer a compelling entry point into a world once dominated by his original paintings. These limitededition prints, whether dating from the 1980s or later estate releases, deliver his signature visual intensity in a smaller, more attainable form. With prices ranging from hundreds to thousands, the market offers options for both firsttime buyers and seasoned collectors. As long as provenance, authenticity, and condition are clear, Basquiat lithographs remain affirmed symbols of artistic innovation and solid investments in their own right.
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