Robert Rauschenberg 'Earth Day' Limited Edition, Signed Lithograph Print

Robert Rauschenberg (American, 1925-2008) Earth Day, 1970 Lithograph with chine collé Signed, dated, numbered by the artist Edition 11/50, Full sheet: 52 1/2 x 37 1/2 in. With mat: approx 55 x 40 in Published by the American Environment Foundation Printed by Gemini G.E.L. Los Angeles, with blindstamp to lower center Catalog Raisonné: RRF 70.E016 Provenance: Butterfield & Butterfield (now Bonhams) Lot 3115, sale 5367L February, 24, 1993

This Robert Rauschenberg lithograph was based on the original, mass produced poster he designed for the very first Earth Day to benefit the American Environment Foundation in Washington, D.C. (originally published in an edition of 10,300 by Castelli Graphics, New York) 'Using the bald eagle as the dominant image, the artist symbolically placed the United States at the center of a global problem. Muted and muddy tones depicting environmental decay surround the national bird: polluted cities, contaminated waters, junkyards littered with debris, landscapes scarred by highways and deforestation, and the gorilla, another endangered animal. The safekeeping of the environment and the notion of individual responsibility for the welfare of life on earth was a longstanding concern of Rauschenberg, and this notion would inform his art and activism throughout his life.

The poster designed for the inaugural Earth Day was one of many he would create to raise funds for the myriad social causes that were important to him.' From the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Website

Print is in very good condition, minor undulations to paper. Presents very well. Currently in a mat.