183 - After JEFF KOONS (United States, 1955).

After JEFF KOONS (United States, 1955). "Balloon Dog (Silver)." Zinc alloy. Limited edition of 999 pieces by Editions Studio. Hologram and unique QR code linked to its digital certificate of authenticity. Numbered under the dog’s paw; ÉS logo engraved on the back of the leg. New, in its original box and protective packaging. Measurements: 30 x 30 x 12 cm. "Balloon Dog" is part of the "Celebration" series, which began in 1994 and continued through 2000. This sculptural series depicts everyday figures that appear to have been made from balloons, such as dogs, hearts, flowers, etc. According to Koons, through this series he sought to reflect the joy of celebrating a party, so he inflated balloons until he found the perfect shape. A key artist on the international scene since the late 20th century, Jeff Koons has developed an artistic language with kitsch overtones and, often, monumental scale. As one of the most sought-after living artists, Koons has been honored throughout his career with numerous awards, including the Cultural BZ Award in Berlin (2000), the title of Knight of the French Legion of Honor (2001, promoted to Officer in 2007), the Museum of Fine Arts School Medal in Boston (2003), election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2005), the Artistic Achievement Award from Americans for the Arts in Washington, D.C. (2006), the Wollaston Prize from the Royal Academy in London (2008), the Rob Pruitt Prize from the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York (2009), honorary membership in the Royal Academy (2010), and the State Department’s Medal of the Arts in Washington, D.C. (2012), among others. His work is currently represented in prominent collections around the world, including the Guggenheim Museums in New York, Bilbao, and Berlin; MoMA in New York; the Tate Gallery in London; the Château de Versailles; the Arken Museum of Modern Art in Denmark, the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Palazzo Grassi in Venice, the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.