Liberty and Justice
Mixed media painting on paper (Original hand-painted variation) • Peter Max (German-American, b. 1937)
Style & Movement
Pop Art / Neo-Expressionism / Psychedelic Art
Medium & Technique
Acrylic and oil paint over a base graphic/print on paper, employing heavy impasto, gestural brushwork, and wet-on-wet techniques.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (c. 1990s-2010s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 18 inches (image size); Vertical/Portrait format, professionally framed.
Subject Description
A vibrant, patriotic depiction of the Statue of Liberty set against a stylized American flag background. The composition features Max's signature bold color palette with expressive, energetic strokes of blue, red, gold, and white. The iconography represents American freedom and immigrant identity, a recurring theme in the artist's work.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the colors are vibrant and the impasto is well-preserved without visible cracking or loss. The paper support appears flat and stable.
Estimated Market Value
$8,000 - $15,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$5,000 - $10,000 USD
Provenance History
Acquired through a commercial gallery or cruise ship art auction (indicative of the framing style); typically includes a certificate of authenticity (COA) from Peter Max Studios.
Art Historical Significance
Peter Max is a major figure in the Pop Art movement. His Statue of Liberty series is his most famous body of work, particularly significant due to his own history as an immigrant and his involvement in the restoration of the statue for its centennial in 1986.
Notable Features
Includes a distinctive, large gestural signature ('Max') in the lower right quadrant in gold/yellow paint; unique hand-painted 'remarque' strokes typical of his 'unique' variations on a common theme; high-quality gallery framing with a linen liner.
Condition Issues
No significant issues visible; minor dust accumulation on the frame and glazing. Long-term risk of UV fading if not protected by conservation-grade glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight. Ensure the use of UV-filtering museum glass and acid-free archival matting to prevent paper yellowing.