Lot 169

Jiří Kolář (1914 - 2002) LAUGHTER OF THE UNIVERSE

In his works, Jiří Kolář often refers to works of classical literature or icons of fine art, and one of them is the exceptionally engaging relief chiasmage Laughter of the Universe. The familiar silhouette of Charlie Chaplin raises plastically from the surface of the plate, and this graceful outline is covered with clusters of constellations from star maps. The dynamics of the surface is emphasized by the contrast of the colored lines of the constellations and the black background. The constellations gather and concentrate on Charlie Chaplin, as if to indicate that he is their soulmate who made the whole universe laugh. Chiasmage with the usage of constellations can be observed in Jiří Kolář's previously auctioned theme of the Star Apple. Important Czech artist, poet, translator, experimenter and organizer Jiří Kolář, as a self-taught person from his poetic roots, formed through various stages of his work to the position of one of the most respected artists of the European format. Already during his life he became a legend and to this day he is a sought-after artist in world galleries and auction houses.