24-058MLR Henry Miller Lithograph 23×21

Offered here is a limited edition lithograph reproduction of a watercolor painting by Henry Miller. The print has a blind embossed stamp of authenticity. It is marked “HC 7/7” in pencil, lower left. “HC” (Hors d’Commerce) means “out of trade.” HCs and APs (Artist’s Proof) are very similar except HCs are only available directly from the artist. HCs are given to the artist for allowing the publisher to print their images. Of all the special prints, the HCs are the most valuable, because of their rarity.

It measures 23×21 inches as framed in silver leaf over wood. The frame show signs of wear.

Provenance: we are representing the seller, Henry Miller’s nephew’s family, who received several prints directly from him as gifts.

Henry Valentine Miller (December 26, 1891–June 7, 1980) was an American novelist, short story writer and essayist. He broke with existing literary forms and developed a new type of semi-autobiographical novel that blended character study, social criticism, philosophical reflection, stream of consciousness, explicit language, sex, surrealist free association, and mysticism. Some works: Tropic of Cancer, Black Spring, Tropic of Capricorn, and The Rosy Crucifixion (all banned in the United States until 1961). —Wikipedia.

“Many of his watercolors were printed as lithographs, usually in editions of 250-300 prints. Dad would have them stacked on the ping pong table taking time in the day to sign & number them. He was pleased that people liked his paintings, giving them to friends & admirers.” —Valentine Miller