The Fine Art & Collectibles Sale
Lot 173:
Description
Image Dimensions: 8 1/8 x 5 1/4 in (20.6 x 13.3 cm)
Framed Dimensions: 18 1/4 x 15 3/8 in (46.5 x 39 cm)
Provenance and Authentication:
This lot is accompanied by supporting documentation provided by the consignor. According to the accompanying materials, the signature was reviewed with reference to factors including ink characteristics, material aging, stylistic consistency, and historical context. These materials relate to the reported signature, provenance, and authentication history of the piece, and are presented as received for bidder review in accordance with the auction terms and conditions.
A signed drawing by Steve Penley represents a bold and expressive example of contemporary American visual culture, closely associated with the artist’s distinctive approach to line, form, and iconic subject matter.
Steve Penley is widely recognized for his energetic and gestural style, often characterized by rapid, confident strokes and a raw, immediate visual language. His work frequently interprets recognizable imagery through a dynamic lens, emphasizing movement, structure, and emotional intensity over meticulous detail. This approach places him within a lineage of modern artists who prioritize expression and visual impact.
This example presents a simplified yet striking depiction of a Coca-Cola bottle, rendered in strong black ink with loose, assertive line work. The composition reduces the subject to its essential contours, while layered strokes and sketch-like construction create a sense of motion and immediacy. The handwritten "Penley" inscription below the image anchors the work and reinforces its connection to the artist’s recognizable aesthetic.
The signature appears integrated within the composition, executed in a manner consistent with known Penley examples, including bold, direct lettering and a spontaneous, unrefined quality that aligns with his broader artistic language. The placement ensures clear visibility while maintaining balance within the overall composition.
From a rarity standpoint, signed drawings by Penley are encountered within the market, yet works that feature clear subject recognition-particularly culturally iconic forms such as the Coca-Cola bottle-tend to attract stronger collector attention due to their visual familiarity and thematic clarity.
From a market perspective, Penley’s work appeals to collectors of contemporary art, Americana, and graphic-inspired compositions. Pieces that combine recognizable imagery with his signature energetic execution are especially suitable for display-oriented collectors, as they offer both artistic identity and immediate visual impact.
The presentation, with a substantial frame and layered matting, enhances the work’s presence, transforming a compact composition into a visually commanding display piece suitable for both residential and gallery environments.
The combination of a distinctive contemporary artist, recognizable subject matter, and strong gestural execution positions this piece within a solid and appealing segment of the modern works-on-paper market.
Overall, this work offers a compelling balance of stylistic identity, cultural reference, and collectible accessibility, making it an attractive addition for collectors seeking dynamic contemporary pieces.
Condition: ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.
Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.
The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.
Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.
All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authenticated any signature, inscription, attribution, authorship, association, provenance, pressing detail, edition, period, origin, or related documentation.
Terms such as "attributed to, " "after, " "manner of, " "circle of, " "school of, " "in the artist’s style, " or similar language mean the lot is not guaranteed to be by the named artist, maker, signer, studio, or period. Exact authorship, origin, attribution, or date may be unknown, and the lot may not be included in any official catalogue raisonné, archive, registry, or recognized reference source.
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