Louise Bourgeois, I Have Been to Hell and Back, 2007

Louise Bourgeois

I Have Been to Hell and Back handkerchief, 2007

Limited Edition Embroidery on 100% Cotton Handkerchief.

Stamp and plate signed and hand numbered

Edition 466/1000

hand numbered and with the artist's silkscreened initials

This long sold out limited edition embroidered handkerchief is based on a larger original, which Bourgeois created in 1996. The formal serif typeface and the horizontal lines that run across this work make it reminiscent of a students' composition. Created on the occasion of Bourgeois' 2007-08 exhibition at the Tate Modern, London - selling out shortly after. This very rare, extremely desirable embroidered handkerchief was created in three variations, blue, red and pink - the present work being the color most closely associated with hell: Red. What makes this work especially collectible is that the design was created and authorized during the artist's lifetime in collaboration with the Tate and Third Drawer Down. It bears Bourgeois' iconic and memorable phrase, "I Have Been to Hell and Back and Let Me Tell You It Was Wonderful." This work is in unusually impressive condition with the original bright hues preserved and not washed or faded, unlike many that have come to market. It is elegantly floated and framed in a wood frame. An extremely desirable collectors item; makes a superb and memorable gift. The work itself has the artist's silkscreened initials, and it is hand numbered from the limited edition of only 1000
Measurements:
Framed
14.75 inches vertical by 14.75 inches horizontal
Artwork
11.75 inches by 11.75 inches