Lot 177: Roberto Burle Marx Abstract Painting

Roberto Burle Marx (Brazil, 1909-1994) untitled abstract painting in shades of blue, red and green. Acrylic and gouache on paper. Signed and dated lower right, "Robert Burle Marx 1984." Molded giltwood frame with mauve silk mat and gilt liner. 12-1/2" x 19-1/2" sight, 20" x 27" framed. Provenance: a Nashville, Tennessee estate. Biography: Roberto Burle Marx was born in San Paolo but studied painting in Berlin, where he also became interested in landscape architecture. He is now considered one of the most celebrated landscape artists of the 20th century. But he continued to express himself artistically through paintings, sculpture, jewelry design, tapestry and singing, and once said that he thought of himself first and foremost as a painter. Marx donated his large estate, including his renowned plant collection, to the Brazilian National Institute for Cultural Heritage in 1985 and died in Rio de Janeiro in 1994. An exhibit devoted to his work in all mediums was featured at the Imperial Museum in Rio de Janiero in 2009 (see The New York Times, Jan. 20, 2009, article by Larry Rother).

Excellent condition.