Color silkscreen print, heavyweight vellum paper, 60 x 60 cm, mounted in a frame measuring 64 x 64 cm;
Numbered in pencil on the lower right: 295/2400
Signed “Andy Warhol” within the composition on the lower left;
On the reverse, a navy blue publisher’s stamp “CMOA” (Carnegie Museum of Art – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) and a “verification of authenticity” hologram.
“Endangered Species” is one of Andy Warhol’s key and most recognizable print series. “Endangered Species” marked Warhol’s first departure from his earlier themes and represented a turning point in his entire artistic career. It is often believed that this series was created during the peak of his career, that is, at a time when Warhol had mastered the technical aspects of silkscreen printing and had ceased to further develop his unique style.
The idea for the “Endangered Species” series was born during a conversation between Warhol and his friends, Ronnie and Gina Lombardo. The couple was involved in animal conservation efforts and persuaded Warhol to draw attention to this issue through his art. Warhol, who often drew inspiration from pop culture and contemporary social issues, took on this theme by creating colorful, vivid portraits of endangered animals in his signature style.
The prints in the series were a significant success, largely because they marked a departure from Warhol’s previous focus on so-called mass culture.
In this series, Warhol portrayed 10 animals listed under the Endangered Species Act—the 1973 U.S. law protecting endangered species. The complete “Endangered Species” series includes: Orangutan, Bald Eagle, Siberian Tiger, Black Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant, Giant Panda, Pine Barrens Butterfly, San Francisco Silverspot, Leatherback Turtle, and Kakapo Parrot.Each work is characterized by intense colors and distinct contours, which is typical of Warhol’s style. The artist employed the silkscreen technique, which he often used in his works, allowing him to create multiple prints from a single design.
“Endangered Species” is not only an artistic expression but also a form of activism. Warhol sought to draw attention to the problem of animal extinction, highlighting their beauty and uniqueness through his colorful, vibrant portraits. This series is often seen as an artistic reminder of the need to protect nature and preserve biodiversity. The “Endangered Species” series has been exhibited in various museums and galleries around the world, helping to raise awareness about animal conservation. Warhol’s works from this series are valued by both art collectors and environmentalists.
The frames shown in the visuals are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a commercial offer.
