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Wolfgang Paalen — Phantoms I
Wolfgang Paalen

Phantoms I

1933

A swirling composition of spectral, biomorphic forms emerges from deep, atmospheric tones in this early work by Wolfgang Paalen, reflecting his engagement with Surrealist explorations of the unconscious. The combination of oil and tempera on paper creates a luminous, layered surface that animates the ghostly figures with an eerie sense of motion and mystery. The artist's own frame further integrates the work as a complete, intentional object, emphasizing Paalen's total artistic vision.

Medium
oil and tempera on paper mounted to cork, in artist's frame
Dimensions
Signed
Yes

Notes

Execution: Painted in 1933.

🔨 Auction Lot

Modern & Contemporary Art Day Sale, Morning Session

May 15, 2020

Estimate: $15,000$20,000

Sold: $15,240

Lot 4

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Spotted works by Wolfgang Paalen

About this work

Wolfgang Paalen, Phantoms I, 1933

A swirling composition of spectral, biomorphic forms emerges from deep, atmospheric tones in this early work by Wolfgang Paalen, reflecting his engagement with Surrealist explorations of the unconscious. The combination of oil and tempera on paper creates a luminous, layered surface that animates the ghostly figures with an eerie sense of motion and mystery. The artist's own frame further integrates the work as a complete, intentional object, emphasizing Paalen's total artistic vision.

Medium
oil and tempera on paper mounted to cork, in artist's frame
Dimensions
36.8 x 52.4 cm
Year
1933
Signed
Hand-signed by the artist
Seen at
Phillips, New York, London, Hong Kong

Related themes

Surrealism, Paper On Cork, Mid Century Modern, Dark Moody Palette, Otherworldly Atmosphere, Oil And Tempera, Male Artist, Surrealist Master, Mixed Media, Austrian-Mexican Artist, Abstract Biomorphic Forms

More works by Wolfgang Paalen

Collected by

Art Institute of Chicago