Join The Collection to save, track, and explore works like this.

Marcel Broodthaers — Fig.1, Fig. 2, Fig. 0, Fig.12
Marcel Broodthaers

Fig.1, Fig. 2, Fig. 0, Fig.12

Marcel Broodthaers' work presents a conceptual intervention through numbered designations that subvert traditional sequential logic, questioning the authority of cataloging systems and institutional frameworks. The artist's use of inscriptions in blue ink and archival stamping transforms the boxes into both artworks and documents, highlighting the distinction between unique objects and reproducible editions while engaging with museological practices. This piece exemplifies Broodthaers' characteristic strategy of using simple materials and administrative language to critique how meaning is constructed and legitimized within art institutions.

Medium
Signed with initials in blue ink on the largest box and stamped 'Belegexemplar' on the reverse (a proof set aside from the unsigned edition of 220), published by Städtisches Museum Mönchengladbach, Germany, on the occasion of their exhibition

🔨 Auction Lot

Evening & Day Editions

January 23, 2025

Lot 95

Start the Discussion

Request access to join the discussion

About this work

Marcel Broodthaers, Fig.1, Fig. 2, Fig. 0, Fig.12

Marcel Broodthaers' work presents a conceptual intervention through numbered designations that subvert traditional sequential logic, questioning the authority of cataloging systems and institutional frameworks. The artist's use of inscriptions in blue ink and archival stamping transforms the boxes into both artworks and documents, highlighting the distinction between unique objects and reproducible editions while engaging with museological practices. This piece exemplifies Broodthaers' characteristic strategy of using simple materials and administrative language to critique how meaning is constructed and legitimized within art institutions.

Medium
Signed with initials in blue ink on the largest box and stamped 'Belegexemplar' on the reverse (a proof set aside from the unsigned edition of 220), published by Städtisches Museum Mönchengladbach, Germany, on the occasion of their exhibition
Seen at
Phillips, New York, London, Hong Kong

Related themes

Minimal Aesthetic, 20th Century, Institutional Critique, Belgian Artist, Mixed Media, Conceptual Art, Numerical notation, Philosophical, Typographical composition, Text-Based Art

More works by Marcel Broodthaers