Roman numeral edition of an etching print by Stanley William Hayter (Signed S.W. Hayter below the etching print. Good condition, no damages. Some sun-staining to the paper under the matting.
Frame: 20.25"x14.25"; Artwork window: 14.5"x7.5"
Hello, this item is an etching print titled “Arctic Sea” by Stanley William Hayter (1901–1988), one of the most influential figures of 20th-century printmaking and founder of Atelier 17 in Paris. The work is signed and dated 1961, with the edition noted as V/X, which indicates a rare Roman numeral edition of only ten impressions. The composition features Hayter’s characteristic abstracted and textural treatment, using layered lines and tonal contrasts to evoke the surface and turbulence of the sea. This experimental approach reflects his deep involvement with Surrealist and later Abstract Expressionist circles, where he pioneered innovative engraving techniques. The print is presented with matting, though there is noted light sun-staining beneath the mat, otherwise it remains in good condition.
In terms of market value, Stanley William Hayter’s etchings are sought after among collectors of mid-century printmaking, particularly works from the 1940s to 1960s when his Atelier 17 exerted significant influence on artists such as Miró, Picasso, and Rothko. Unique or small Roman numeral editions like this example generally carry stronger desirability compared to open-numbered editions. Based on comparable sales at auction, etchings by Hayter from the early 1960s typically range between 1,000 and 3,000 USD, with rarer editions achieving higher results. For this particular work, given the limited edition of ten and the attractive abstract marine subject, a fair market value can be estimated at 1,500 to 2,500 USD in the current international prints market.