Carol
Original Graphic Poster / Serigraph • Patrick Nagel (1945–1984)
Style & Movement
Minimalist Graphic Art / 1980s Pop Art / Contemporary Art Deco
Medium & Technique
Serigraph (Silk Screen) on heavy paper stock, characterized by flat fields of color and sharp, clean line work.
Creation Period
Circa 1983-1984
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 36 inches; Vertical Portrait format.
Subject Description
A stylized portrait of a woman with short, dark hair, wearing a loose-fitting blue off-the-shoulder top and dark trousers. The composition employs Nagel’s signature 'Nagel Woman' aesthetic: pale, porcelain-like skin, stark black hair, and bold, minimalist facial features. The backdrop is a simple geometric light-brown shape against a cool gray field.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (Grade B). The print appears vibrant, but there is noticeable surface scuffing and minor scratches on the protective plexiglass/frame and potential light edge wear typical of vintage paper posters.
Estimated Market Value
$250 - $600 USD (Depending on whether it is an original limited lifetime edition or a posthumous plate-signed reprint).
Auction Estimate
$300 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Likely purchased from a commercial gallery or poster shop in the mid-1980s. Published by Mirage Editions, which handled the primary distribution of Nagel's 'Graphics + Posters' series during his peak popularity.
Art Historical Significance
Patrick Nagel was a defining figure of 1980s visual culture, most famous for designing the cover of Duran Duran's 'Rio' album. His work blended the elegance of Art Deco with the efficiency of modern graphic design, creating an iconic archetype of late 20th-century femininity and glamour.
Notable Features
Features the distinctive 'N A G E L' typography at the bottom margin with 'GRAPHICS • POSTERS' subtext. The 'Carol' print is one of his most recognizable and sought-after individual poster designs.
Condition Issues
Visible scratches on the framing material; potential light foxing or yellowing of the paper edges if not acid-free mounting was used; minor surface abrasions consistent with 40 years of display.
Conservation Recommendations
Remount using acid-free, archival mats and UV-protective museum glass to prevent color fading. Keep out of direct sunlight to protect the sensitivity of the silkscreen inks.