Kumi Sugai (1919-1996) - Le Ciel Bleu (Blue Sky)

Kumi Sugai – Le Ciel Bleu (Blue Sky) – Original Lithograph

An original lithograph by the internationally acclaimed Japanese artist Kumi Sugai (1919–1996).

Conceived in 1962, this abstract work was published in 1970 as part of the masterwork print portfolio Modern Prints, issued by Chikuma Shobo in a limited edition of 500 copies.

The piece exemplifies Kumi Sugai’s signature artistic language, seamlessly fusing traditional East Asian calligraphic elements with the free, expressive abstraction of European Art Informel.

Powerful black and deep blue-grey forms, accented by a light sky-blue outline, are rendered with rich lithographic brushwork, creating a dynamic and striking presence on the sheet.

Hand-signed in pencil by the artist in the lower-left corner of the image area: “SUGAÏ 63”.

About the Artist

Kumi Sugai (1919–1996) was one of the pivotal figures in post-war Japanese and European abstract art.

Born in Kobe, he moved to Paris in 1952, where he established international recognition through his association with the European Art Informel movement.

He participated in major international exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale and the São Paulo Biennial, and received numerous prestigious awards.

His works are represented in the permanent collections of renowned museums and public institutions worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.

Medium

Original lithograph on paper.

Artwork Details

* Artist: Kumi Sugai (1919–1996)
* Title: Le Ciel Bleu (Blue Sky / 青空)
* Year of Conception: 1962
* Date of Signing: 1963
* Medium: Original lithograph
* Signature: Hand-signed in pencil by the artist, “SUGAÏ 63,” in the lower-left corner of the image area
* Image Size: Approx. 32.0 × 22.0 cm
* Sheet Size: Approx. 42.0 × 29.5 cm
* Framing: Unframed

Condition

In good vintage condition.

The work shows minor light toning consistent with age, faint foxing or spotting, and minor handling marks in the margins. These are natural signs of age for a print from this period.

Please refer closely to the provided images to assess the condition, as they form an essential part of the description.

Framing

This artwork will be delivered unframed.

Important Shipping & Import Notice

The artwork will be shipped via EMS (Express Mail Service) and carefully packed with ample protective materials to help prevent damage during international transport.

Due to courier regulations and protective packaging, the overall parcel dimensions may be larger than the artwork itself.

Import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, and any other local charges are the sole responsibility of the buyer.

Important Note for Bidders

* Italy: A codice fiscale (tax ID) may be required for customs clearance.
* Portugal: An NIF (tax ID) may be required for customs clearance.
* Spain: An NIF (tax ID) may be required for customs clearance.