Alexander Calder’s overall impact on the art world is now obvious. He turned movement, color, and the lightness of materials (metal, wire, painted sheet metal) into the key elements of a sculptural vocabulary which is fundamental to modern art. This also translated exceptionally to drawings, watercolors and print-multiples.
He was the inventor of the mobile and mobiles that naturally with air currents (think about that one). His work is where engineering meets art. There is whimsy and joy in the pieces. He created massive, stationary sculptures. Beyond sculpture, he designed jewelry, theatrical sets and even painted jet airplanes. Calder’s work is three dimensional and his use of space is now taken for granted in practically everything you see.
His current surge in popularity is driven by a “perfect storm” of major recognized anniversaries, a shift toward dynamic and mobile art in contemporary design.
For example, The Centenary: 100 years since Calder first arrived in France in 1926. Likewise, the 50th Anniversary, half a century since the artist’s passing was 1976.
Furthermore, there is now an appreciation for artists that are multidisciplinary. Artists that work in different fields. Dali, Picasso, Kusama, Hockney and Peter Max for example.
So, collecting Alexander Calder these days really requires a strategic approach, authentication, and market timing. Market timing is probably the key point. Finding the opportunity. It can be competitive.
The sculptures and mobiles out of reach most everybody unless you are one of the luckiest people. Gauches and watercolors are extremely prized and the values have been rising, reaching six figures.
There is a very high demand for prints: Calder’s “Print-Multiple” category. It is particularly active, making up the bulk of his auction entries
So, what is my entry point to Alexander Calder what should I be looking for right now?
Calder’s Prints and Lithographs are the most accessible entry points. Look for signed editions from famous series like the “Circus” or “Constellations”. But you need to be aware of the size of the prints.
Authentic Calder prints generally have a standard paper size used during specific periods.
Specialized Galleries, Reputable dealers often have deep inventories and expertise. Also, vetted Online Platforms are generally safer than general marketplaces because they primarily host established galleries
though you should still verify the individual listings.
Therefore, targeting Alexander Calder lithographs and prints involves navigating a wide range of values, from affordable posthumous editions to highly sought-after hand-signed pieces.
What am I looking for?
Derrière le Miroir” (DLM) Lithographs: Published by Galerie Maeght, these were often released as magazine inserts or part of deluxe portfolios. This is where you can find some excellent values.
But many can be valued in the thousands of dollars.
Originals Lithographs: These are authentic lithographs printed from the artist’s plates but are typically unsigned and unnumbered. There are signed and numbered versions too. Those Lithographs are in very high demand and often start bidding wars. But mostly the original lithographs are generally affordable, ranging from $300 to $2500 depending on the specific issue and condition. But supply and demand often dictate the final price.
Plate-Signed (Posthumous) Lithographic Reproductions: These bear a printed signature (“in the plate”) and were often created for exhibitions or retrospectives.
The value of these entry-level pieces, often priced between $150 and $500….and again, most are very desirable too.
Always check the Edition Number: Smaller edition sizes (under 150) are generally more expensive and investment worthy. If that is what you are looking for.
Also, be aware of larger “limited” editions of 4,000+, which often functions more as high-quality poster than investment-grade art. The postesr are very good to have as well because today anything Calder is good to have.
The “Loupe” magnifying Glass Test: The magnifying glass is to check for a “dot pattern.” Authentic lithographs should show solid, opaque colors. If you see tiny CMYK dots, it is a ‘mechanical reproduction’ (poster).
Paper Dimensions are a key to know Authenticity: Genuine lithographs and prints from specific periods often adhere to standard paper sizes used by printers like Mourlot or Maeght. Discrepancies in size can be a red flag for fakes.
Alexander Calder is an “Engineer of Joy”. Take advantage of the opportunity to own a Calder. If there is a time to do it. It is now.