Of Base Of Skull
by Jean-Michel Basquiat
Year: 1982
Medium: Lithograph
Size: 30 x 22.33 in (76.2 x 56.71 cm)
Edition: 18
Signed
A rare 1982 lithograph by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Of Base Of Skull measures 30 x 22.33 inches and belongs to an exceptionally limited edition of 18. Signed by the artist, the work reveals Basquiat’s fascination with anatomy, mortality, and symbolic language, reflecting his influential Neo-Expressionist practice. Its scarcity, historical significance, and authenticated signature make it a highly desirable acquisition for discerning collectors.
Of Base of Skull is a compelling work by Jean-Michel Basquiat that demonstrates the artist’s fascination with anatomy, mortality, and the hidden structures of human existence. The work originated from Basquiat’s studio practice and does not have a street graffiti version. Although Basquiat first became known through his SAMO graffiti writings in New York, Of Base of Skull belongs to his mature period, when he transformed street-inspired ideas into influential contemporary artworks.
Part of Basquiat’s broader exploration of anatomy, the work uses the skull as a symbol of consciousness, vulnerability, and the relationship between the physical body and human identity. His expressive marks, handwritten references, and fragmented forms challenge traditional scientific imagery, turning anatomical study into a deeper reflection on life, history, and mortality.
Collectors value Of Base of Skull for its rarity, intellectual significance, and connection to one of Basquiat’s most important artistic investigations. Anatomy-related works remain highly desirable for their unique combination of scholarship, symbolism, and the unmistakable energy of the artist’s hand.
Curator Insight: At ArtLife Gallery, we see this work as a powerful example of Basquiat’s ability to transform scientific observation into emotional and cultural storytelling.
Related to Right Clavicle, from Anatomy Series, Ligaments of the Elbow, Untitled (Head), and Dog Leg Study, Of Base of Skull represents Basquiat’s influential era of blending research, symbolism, and raw expression into enduring contemporary art.
Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960–1988) was an American artist whose journey from New York's underground graffiti scene to the international art market transformed contemporary art forever. Born in Brooklyn to Haitian and Puerto Rican parents, Basquiat first gained attention in the late 1970s through the graffiti collective SAMO before becoming one of the defining artists of the Neo-Expressionist movement. Basquiat became so famous because he fused raw street culture with fine art, creating powerful works that explored race, identity, politics, and social inequality through a bold visual language unlike anything seen before. Although his career lasted less than ten years, his influence on modern art continues to grow decades after his death.
Basquiat's paintings are instantly recognizable for their energetic compositions, expressive brushwork, fragmented text, bold color palettes, and layered symbolism. Recurring motifs including crowns, skulls, anatomical sketches, athletes, musicians, and historical references reflect his exploration of identity, race, power, and cultural history. His collaborations with Andy Warhol further elevated his profile and remain among the most celebrated partnerships in contemporary art.
Today, Basquiat's work is displayed in leading museums and prestigious private collections worldwide. Among the biggest collectors and celebrity owners of Basquiat art are influential figures from the worlds of entertainment, fashion, and finance, reflecting his enduring appeal across industries. His cultural impact extends beyond the gallery, with major brands including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Coach, Uniqlo, and Supreme drawing inspiration from his iconic imagery through high-profile collaborations.
For collectors, Jean-Michel Basquiat is widely considered a blue-chip investment. Original paintings regularly achieve multi-million-dollar prices at auction, while important works have sold for more than $100 million. Limited-edition prints and drawings offer more accessible entry points, although demand remains consistently high. The greatest advantages of investing in Basquiat include exceptional global recognition, strong secondary-market performance, and enduring cultural relevance.
More Jean-Michel Basquiat Works to Explore
Of Base Of Skull
by Jean-Michel Basquiat
Year: 1982
Medium: Lithograph
Size: 30 x 22.33 in (76.2 x 56.71 cm)
Edition: 18
A rare 1982 lithograph by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Of Base Of Skull measures 30 x 22.33 inches and belongs to an exceptionally limited edition of 18. Signed by the artist, the work reveals Basquiat’s fascination with anatomy, mortality, and symbolic language, reflecting his influential Neo-Expressionist practice. Its scarcity, historical significance, and authenticated signature make it a highly desirable acquisition for discerning collectors.
Of Base of Skull is a compelling work by Jean-Michel Basquiat that demonstrates the artist’s fascination with anatomy, mortality, and the hidden structures of human existence. The work originated from Basquiat’s studio practice and does not have a street graffiti version. Although Basquiat first became known through his SAMO graffiti writings in New York, Of Base of Skull belongs to his mature period, when he transformed street-inspired ideas into influential contemporary artworks.
Part of Basquiat’s broader exploration of anatomy, the work uses the skull as a symbol of consciousness, vulnerability, and the relationship between the physical body and human identity. His expressive marks, handwritten references, and fragmented forms challenge traditional scientific imagery, turning anatomical study into a deeper reflection on life, history, and mortality.
Collectors value Of Base of Skull for its rarity, intellectual significance, and connection to one of Basquiat’s most important artistic investigations. Anatomy-related works remain highly desirable for their unique combination of scholarship, symbolism, and the unmistakable energy of the artist’s hand.
Curator Insight: At ArtLife Gallery, we see this work as a powerful example of Basquiat’s ability to transform scientific observation into emotional and cultural storytelling.
Related to Right Clavicle, from Anatomy Series, Ligaments of the Elbow, Untitled (Head), and Dog Leg Study, Of Base of Skull represents Basquiat’s influential era of blending research, symbolism, and raw expression into enduring contemporary art.
Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960–1988) was an American artist whose journey from New York's underground graffiti scene to the international art market transformed contemporary art forever. Born in Brooklyn to Haitian and Puerto Rican parents, Basquiat first gained attention in the late 1970s through the graffiti collective SAMO before becoming one of the defining artists of the Neo-Expressionist movement. Basquiat became so famous because he fused raw street culture with fine art, creating powerful works that explored race, identity, politics, and social inequality through a bold visual language unlike anything seen before. Although his career lasted less than ten years, his influence on modern art continues to grow decades after his death.
Basquiat's paintings are instantly recognizable for their energetic compositions, expressive brushwork, fragmented text, bold color palettes, and layered symbolism. Recurring motifs including crowns, skulls, anatomical sketches, athletes, musicians, and historical references reflect his exploration of identity, race, power, and cultural history. His collaborations with Andy Warhol further elevated his profile and remain among the most celebrated partnerships in contemporary art.
Today, Basquiat's work is displayed in leading museums and prestigious private collections worldwide. Among the biggest collectors and celebrity owners of Basquiat art are influential figures from the worlds of entertainment, fashion, and finance, reflecting his enduring appeal across industries. His cultural impact extends beyond the gallery, with major brands including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Coach, Uniqlo, and Supreme drawing inspiration from his iconic imagery through high-profile collaborations.
For collectors, Jean-Michel Basquiat is widely considered a blue-chip investment. Original paintings regularly achieve multi-million-dollar prices at auction, while important works have sold for more than $100 million. Limited-edition prints and drawings offer more accessible entry points, although demand remains consistently high. The greatest advantages of investing in Basquiat include exceptional global recognition, strong secondary-market performance, and enduring cultural relevance.