Campbell's Soup Cans
Set of paintings on canvas • Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987)
Style & Movement
Pop Art
Medium & Technique
Synthetic polymer paint on canvas; predominantly hand-painted with some use of hand-cut stencils to mimic mechanical reproduction.
Creation Period
1962
Dimensions & Format
Each canvas measures approximately 20 x 16 inches (50.8 x 40.6 cm); vertical portrait format.
Subject Description
The work consists of individual canvases each depicting a different variety of Campbell's Soup sold at the time. The composition mimics commercial advertising, focusing on consumerism, mass production, and the repetition of everyday objects. The iconography includes the red and white label and the gold seal of the Campbell Soup Company.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Museum Quality. The surfaces appear stable with consistent color saturation and no visible structural failures.
Estimated Market Value
$200,000,000 - $300,000,000 (estimated for the full set of 32)
Auction Estimate
$150,000,000 - $250,000,000 (theoretical for the full set)
Provenance History
Originally debuted at the Ferus Gallery in Los Angeles (1962). Purchased as a complete set by Irving Blum. Currently part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York, since 1996.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most iconic works of the 20th century, this series signaled the birth of Pop Art in the US. It challenged traditional notions of fine art by elevating a mundane grocery item to a museum subject and explored the blurring lines between high art and commercial culture.
Notable Features
Each can features a different flavor name (e.g., Tomato, Vegetable, Bean with Bacon). The fleur-de-lis pattern at the bottom of the cans is a distinctive hand-painted element. These specific frames are the standard thin wood gallery frames used by MoMA.
Condition Issues
Minimal visible issues; possible slight darkening of the white pigments over decades, typical of synthetic polymer from this era. No major losses or mechanical damage visible.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a climate-controlled environment (50% RH, 70°F). Use UV-filtering glass and low-intensity LED lighting. These works should be maintained as a complete set and handled with specialized archival protocols.