Olympische Spiele München 1972 (Olympic Games Munich 1972)
Original color silkscreen/serigraph print with metal foil embossing on heavy paper • Friedensreich Hundertwasser (Austrian, 1928–2000)
Style & Movement
Modernism / Post-War Art, characterized by the artist's unique 'Transautomatism' and decorative biomorphic abstraction related to Art Nouveau and Secessionism.
Medium & Technique
Silkscreen printing in multiple colors including metallic foils (gold, silver, and copper foil). The technique utilizes Hundertwasser's signature 'trans-automatism' with high-gloss finishes and decorative layering.
Creation Period
1971-1972
Dimensions & Format
Standard edition approximately 102 x 64 cm (40 x 25 inches); Portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A vibrant, biomorphic composition featuring onion domes (recalling St. Basil's or the artist's architectural motifs), stylized human figures with checkerboard patterns, and borders filled with eyes and organic cells. It incorporates the Olympic rings and the text 'OLYMPISCHE SPIELE MÜNCHEN 1972'. The imagery reflects Hundertwasser's ecological and humanistic philosophy rather than traditional sports motifs.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The colors appear vibrant; however, there is noticeable glare and potential waviness in the paper behind the glass. The metallic foils are susceptible to oxidation or scratching if not properly sealed.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,000 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
This was part of a series of posters commissioned for the 1972 Munich Olympics. It likely originated from the official Olympic committee distribution or a specialized art gallery post-1972. Visible numbering (1659/3988) in the bottom left indicates it is from the limited edition of 3,988 signed and numbered in the stone.
Art Historical Significance
Highly significant as one of the most iconic posters of the 20th century. Hundertwasser was one of many major artists (including Hockney and Jones) commissioned for the Munich games to elevate the event's cultural profile. It represents his peak period of printmaking experimentation and his rejection of the 'straight line'.
Notable Features
Features a unique numbering system visible in the lower left gold-foiled section. Includes the official 1972 Munich Olympic spiral logo. The application of metallic foil provides a three-dimensional, luminescent quality that distinguishes Hundertwasser's prints from standard lithography.
Condition Issues
Possible light-induced fading if displayed in direct sunlight; minor rippling of the paper support; potential silverfish or moisture damage at the edges depending on the archival quality of the mounting.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional reframing using UV-protective museum glass and acid-free archival mounting. Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with humidity between 40-50% to protect the metallic foil layers.