Maravillas con Variaciones Acrósticas en el Jardín de Miró (Wonders with Acrostic Variations in Miró’s Garden)
Print; original lithograph on Arches vellum or thick wove paper • Joan Miró (Spanish, 1893–1983)
Style & Movement
Surrealism / Mid-Century Modernism / Abstract Expressionism influence
Medium & Technique
Color lithography featuring flat ink application, calligraphic line work, and characteristic splatters/dripping effects
Creation Period
1975
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 50 x 36 cm (image); Portrait format within a white mat and gilt frame
Subject Description
An anthropomorphic figure or personage rendered through bold, gestural black strokes and primary colored geometric shapes. The piece utilizes Miró's idiosyncratic lexicon of symbols, including a star/asterisk (representing cosmic energy), circular eyes, and bird-like traits set against a background of energetic ink splatters and muted secondary tones.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (visible under glass); paper appears bright with no immediate signs of foxing or water damage, though some light-induced fading is possible depending on display history
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD (depending on presence of a pencil signature and edition number)
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely part of the 'Maravillas con Variaciones' portfolio published by Polígrafa, Barcelona. Typical history includes acquisition through print galleries or secondary market art auctions.
Art Historical Significance
A late-career masterpiece of printmaking that demonstrates Miró's mastery of the lithographic medium and his continued obsession with the 'personage' motif. Published during a period of prolific print production with Polígrafa, it reflects his synthesis of surrealist automatism with high-key primary colors.
Notable Features
Includes Miró's signature asterisk symbol on the right; the composition shows a sophisticated balance between chaotic splatter and controlled, heavy black calligraphic lines characteristic of his 1970s work.
Condition Issues
Reflection in photograph suggests glazing is standard glass; potential for slight acid burns from the matting if not archival; minor risk of light-fade to the red and yellow pigments.
Conservation Recommendations
Verify if the mat is acid-free; replace glass with UV-protective acrylic (Plexiglas) to prevent fading; ensure the print is hinged with Japanese paper and wheat starch paste rather than adhesive tape.