Joan Miro (1893-1983) - L'Issue dérobée

Joan Miró i Ferrà
The Stolen Issue, 1974
Original etching executed in mixed technique — drypoint and aquatint in colors —, realized in Paris in 1974 as part of the graphic project conceived by Joan Miró for L’Issue dérobée, with texts by the poet and art critic Jacques Dupin.
The work is signed in pencil by the artist in the lower right corner and justified “H.C.” —hors commerce— in the lower left margin. It is one of the few out-of-commerce copies, belonging to a restricted edition of only 20 H.C. proofs, a circumstance that markedly increases its rarity and appeal within Miró’s graphic market.
The composition constitutes a particularly refined expression of the language developed by the artist during his mature period. On a white, open space unfolds a complex architecture of black lines, ascending curves, arrows, stellar signs and small orbital forms. These elements traverse the surface with apparent spontaneity, but respond to a visually balanced structure carefully built.
The linear structure is articulated through broad enveloping strokes that traverse horizontally the image and dialogue with a succession of intensely chromatic cores: luminous yellow, earthy red, pink, orange, and a deep dark green. In the lower area, numerous green splashes and stains introduce an organic and atmospheric dimension, like a vegetal constellation contrasting with the incisive precision of the black lines.
The drypoint provides the drawing with a direct, tactile vibrancy, especially visible in the irregular delicacy of the strokes, while the aquatint allows the creation of diffused, luminous, and suspended color fields on the paper. The result is an image of pronounced poetic freedom, in which Miró transforms elemental signs into an imaginary universe populated by figures, stars, and ascending movements.
Copy printed on Vélin d’Arches paper, preserved untrimmed, with full margins and the original fringes visible.
Sheet measurements: 502 × 325 mm.
Framed measurements: 60 × 64 cm.
The condition is excellent. The work shows no foxing and retains notable chromatic freshness, with pigments that are intense and well defined. The paper maintains a uniform tone and good structural stability.
Work documented in Patrick Cramer, Catalogue raisonné des livres illustrés, p. 460, no. 187.
A piece of notable rarity and great graphic richness, representative of the freer, more lyrical and experimental Miró of the mid-1970s.