Hans Joachim Block (XX) - Phoenix II

Hans Joachim Block – “Phoenix II,” 1965
Oil collage on canvas
signed, verso with gallery/inventory tag from Baukunst Köln

For sale is a large-format abstract work by the artist Hans Joachim Block entitled “Phoenix II” from 1965.

The work is executed as an oil collage on canvas and displays a multi-layered, vertically structured composition in warm red, orange, ochre, and gray tones. The overlapped, sometimes flame-like forms give the piece a strong rhythmic tension. The title “Phoenix II” can be read in connection with the imagery as a reference to ascent, transformation, and return.

Hans Joachim Block belongs to the context of post-war Rhineland abstract art. He was part of the circle around the Cologne artists’ group “mal fünf,” which was active in the early 1960s and connected with artists such as Ben Granzer, Hansjürgen Grümmer, Peter Ohlow, and Rudolf Alfons Scholl. The present work was created in 1965 and stylistically sits close to Informel, material image, and abstract collage.

The work is signed lower right. On the back there is an old gallery/inventory tag from Baukunst Köln, Theodor-Heuss-Ring 7. It lists the artist, title, technique, year, size, and a storage/inventory number.

Details:
Artist: Hans Joachim Block
Title: Phoenix II
Technique: Oil collage (oil and collage on coarse canvas)
Year: 1965
Size: approx. 98 × 78 cm (canvas); 99 × 80 cm (frame)
Storage/Inventory number: G 14/29

The condition is good, the collage parts appear stable, the canvas is well preserved. The light frame shows age-appropriate signs of wear and is included as an accessory. Photos are part of the condition description.

Value-added tax is not shown separately – art & used items special regulation under § 25a UStG.