L'Aigrette Rouge

Created in 1976, this dynamic image is part of a series of prints that Miró created in collaboration with printmaker Robert Dutrou, using Henri Goetz's innovative carborundum printmaking technique. The title of the work translates as 'The Red Egret' and depicts the abstracted form of a bird in bold, contrasting colours. The deep blues and blacks of the lower half of the composition are balanced by the empty negative space towards the top, creating an intriguing visual tension. The sweeping curves and loops of thick, black linework bring energy and movement to the image. This print not only showcases Miró's mastery of compositional design but also highlights his technical brilliance. Through the combined use of aquatint for background colours, etching for the bird's outline, and carborundum to add texture and depth, Miró creates a striking visual effect.

Etching and aquatint with carborundum in colours, 1976, on Arches paper, signed in pencil and numbered 40 from the edition of 50 (there were also 12 Artist's Proofs), printed by Morsang, Paris, published by Maeght, Paris, with full margins, sheet: 1378 x 956 mm. (54 ½ x 38 in.)

Dupin 930