
Introductions Basel, 1964
1964
This abstracted composition comprises thousands of small, delicately rendered rectangular forms in warm ochre and cream tones against a pale ground. The marks are densely distributed across the entire surface, creating a shimmering, rhythmic texture that suggests urban architecture or a crowded marketplace seen from a great distance. The meticulous application of tempera and graphite creates subtle tonal variations that animate the surface, inviting close viewing despite the work's modest scale. The composition evokes the sensory experience of bustling city life and human interaction, translating visual chaos into ordered, meditative mark making.
- Medium
- tempera and graphite on paper mounted on board
- Overall
- Spotted At
- Auction House · Sotheby's
Notes
Contemporary Day Auction, Sotheby's, sale on 2026-05-15.
🔨 Auction Lot
Contemporary Day Auction
May 15, 2026
Estimate: $400,000 – $600,000
For Sale
More by Mark Tobey
Start the Discussion
Request access to join the discussion