821 - Eduardo Chillida (1924 – San Sebastián – 2002)

Eduardo Chillida (1924 – San Sebastián – 2002) Meditation in Castile Portfolio containing 7 lithographs on Japanese paper. In an original linen-bound portfolio. Published by Erker-Presse, St. Gallen, 1968. Up to approx. 45.5 x 37.5 cm (sheet size). One of 20 numbered copies of the special edition on Japanese paper, in addition to the book edition of 145 copies on BFK Rives paper. Signed on the lower margin. Complete. Printed and published by the Erker-Galerie, St. Gallen, with the Erker-Presse dry stamp. • Rare special edition from 1968 on Japanese paper—only 20 copies • Complete portfolio with seven lithographs by the Erker-Presse • Expressive compositions exploring space, form, and emptiness Eduardo Chillida is considered one of the outstanding sculptors and printmakers of the international postwar modernist movement. His distinctive body of work revolves around the dynamic relationship between space and form, matter and void. In his prints as well, the Basque artist translates his sculptural concepts of space into a visual language that is as powerful as it is sensitive. The portfolio, published in 1968 by the renowned Erker-Presse in St. Gallen, belongs to a significant phase of his graphic work. Monumental-seeming black forms contrast with the light-colored paper surfaces and, through overlays and deliberate omissions, unfold a fascinating spatial dynamic. Emptiness itself becomes a formative element—a central principle in Chillida’s art. His intense exploration of space and existence found particular expression in 1969 in his collaboration with Martin Heidegger on *Die Kunst und der Raum* (*Art and Space*). These lithographs also allow one to experience this philosophical dimension of his art firsthand. Of particular appeal to collectors is the extremely rare special edition on Japanese paper, limited to just 20 numbered copies. The fully preserved portfolio combines Chillida’s characteristic formal language with the unique aesthetics of the fine paper and impressively documents the significance of his prints within his entire body of work. Provenance: Erker Gallery, St. Gallen; Private collection, Switzerland, acquired from the aforementioned in 1968; Private collection, Switzerland, inherited from the aforementioned. Taxation: subject to regular taxation (VAT: Regular Taxation).