The Book (L'Album)
Print on heavy wove paper • Joan Miró
Style & Movement
Surrealism / Biomorphic Abstraction
Medium & Technique
Etching and aquatint with drypoint and scraper
Creation Period
1945
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 30 x 23 cm (plate size); Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A complex surrealist composition featuring a central zoomorphic or totemic figure composed of calligraphic lines, spirals, and textured masses. Elements include a bird-like profile at the top, a stylized flower or plant growing from an open book at the bottom center, and various geometric and organic shapes indicative of the artist's postwar 'constellation' and 'monster' motifs. The image deals with themes of regeneration and the subconscious.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; slight yellowing of the paper consistent with age and visible plate tone in the margins.
Estimated Market Value
$15,000 - $25,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$8,000 - $12,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely originally part of 'Album 13', a series of lithographs and etchings produced in post-war Paris/Barcelona. Typically sold through galleries like Galerie Maeght or Pierre Matisse.
Art Historical Significance
Reflects Miró's transition from his famous 'Constellations' series toward more aggressive, earthy, and complex printmaking. It represents the revitalization of European Surrealism immediately following World War II and showcases his technical mastery of the copper plate.
Notable Features
Prominent use of aquatint to create varied tonal textures in the background; distinct plate mark; heavy ink saturation in the drypoint burr areas; signature Miroesque 'spiral' and 'bird' iconography.
Condition Issues
Possible light foxing in the upper margin; minor paper undulation; some visible reflections on the glazing suggesting it is not currently under museum-grade anti-reflective glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional removal from current matting to inspect edges; remounting using acid-free archival materials; replacement of glass with UV-filtering museum-grade acrylic or glass; storage in a climate-controlled environment away from direct light.