Larry Rivers

Estate of the artist

This work is in good condition overall. There is a minor amount of surface dust. In the lower center portion of red pigment there is an area of possible tiny spots of loss, although this may be inherent to the artist's technique. Minor wear to bottom corners. Unframed.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

 

Starting in the late 1980s, Rivers worked on an extensive series of works called 'Art and the Artist' which explored the relationship between abstraction and representation. In these works, he combined studies of artists at work with appropriated depictions, within the composition, of works by abstract  artists which complemented the depicted activity.  Though many of these combinations were about painters, some depicted musicians, actors and dancers.  Merce Cunningham Seated is exceptional for depicting the artist not engaged in his craft, but at rest: to be sure, posed as if taking a break between dance rehearsals, or perhaps contemplating the next series of choreographic steps.  In the background, the floor and a shape which could be the frame of a dance studio mirror, suggest a minimalist painting.