Oil on canvas. Signed, dated, and inscribed with the work number “448-3” on the reverse. 78 x 52 cm.

• Early work from the series of the “Abstract Paintings.”
• In the almost monochrome color scheme, Richter combines the formal rigor of his figurative works with the gestural freedom of his abstract works.
• The intense, flat red tones lend the work an immediate physical presence and emotional depth.
• Unusual surface structure: the rhythmical structure adds tactile depth and striking materiality to the painting.
• Almost monochrome paintings from this work phase are extremely rare on the art auction market.
LITERATURE: Dietmar Elger, Gerhard Richter. Catalogue raisonné, vol. 3: 1976-1987 (nos. 389-651-2), Ostfildern 2013, no. 448-3 Gerhard Richter Werkübersicht / Catalogue raisonné 1962-1993, Kunst- und Ausstellungshalle der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, vol. III, Bonn 1993, no. 448-2 - - Jürgen Harten et al., Gerhard Richter. Bilder = Paintings 1962 - 1985, Cologne 1986, p. 391, illustrated on p. 221 (there as no. 448-2). Christie's, London, auction Post-War and Contemporary Day Sale, June 25, 2004, lot 216.