Untitled (S. 196) © Donald Judd 1996 
Donald Judd
47 works
Key Takeaways
Donald Judd's prints demonstrate consistent market strength, with complete portfolios regularly achieving six-figure sums. His Untitled (1988) series holds the auction record at £247,481, while individual prints typically fetch between £15,000 and £20,000. Authentication requires thorough examination of paper quality and printing technique, with reference to the Judd Foundation's archives and the 1993 catalogue raisonné. Judd's methodical approach to editioning, typically limiting runs to between 10 and 50 prints, with signatures appearing on the reverse, helps verify authenticity. His use of German Etching and Japanese papers means condition is paramount to value, with geometric precision and colour consistency being crucial factors. Strategic timing of sales, particularly during retrospectives or surge periods in Minimalist art, can significantly influence returns.
Donald Judd redefined art and architecture through his Minimalist focus on form and space. Known for precise geometric sculptures, Judd also created woodcuts and etchings that translate his three-dimensional concepts into two dimensions. This guide offers insights into buying and selling Judd’s prints, covering valuation, authentication, and key market strategies.
The strong market for Judd prints reflects his significant influence on Contemporary art. His prints, often designed in sequences, are regularly sold in sets of two, four, or more for five-figure sums. In the right market, however, individual prints can achieve similar prices.
Judd’s printmaking practice began with his work as an art critic and painter in the 1950s, evolving alongside his sculptural practice. His prints embody a commitment to clarity and precision, featuring bold geometric forms in structured, mathematical sequences that reflect his minimalist philosophy. Collaborating closely with master printers, particularly those at Styria Studio in New York, Judd created prints and editions that capture his principles of simplicity and intentionality, translating the essence of his minimalist philosophy into the two-dimensional space of printmaking.
How Much Do Donald Judd Prints Sell For?
Untitled (1988), a series of ten woodcuts, featuring Judd's signature geometric progressions in red, holds the current auction record for a complete portfolio, selling at Sotheby's New York in 2019 for £247,481. This marked a rise from the previous sale of the same series in 2016, when another complete set, in red, sold for £187,979, demonstrating the increasing value of this collection. Individual prints from this series are rare, but could achieve between £15,000 and £20,000 at public auction. In 2018, a blue Untitled (1988) set sold for £175,000 at Christie’s London. Other popular print series from this period include Untitled (1990), which uses a broader colour palette but employs the same geometric concepts, and in 2022, a set of seven woodcuts sold for £168,773.
A series of etchings from the late 1970s has become synonymous with Judd’s name. Untitled (1977/78), comprising 16 prints featuring three-dimensional rectangular illustrations, sold for £24,000 in 2020. Works from this series, including Untitled (S.108) and Untitled (S.113), demonstrate Judd’s meticulous approach to etching and his ability to convey three-dimensional depth on two-dimensional surfaces.
Judd's earlier prints from the 1960s prints are particularly sought-after, showing the development of the aesthetic principles that would define his career. One example is his print series is Untitled: Five Prints (1961/69), which includes Untitled (S.59). The complete set, comprising five prints in a limited edition of just ten, offers significant collector appeal due to its rarity. This set sold for £75,769 in 2017, underscoring its value in the market.
How Do You Authentic A Donald Judd Print?
Determining the authenticity of your Judd print begins with an examination of its provenance. Any certificates, gallery receipts, correspondence, or exhibition catalogues will aid in proving its legitimacy, but the confirmation of a professional appraiser is also necessary. The Judd Foundation, established to preserve his artistic legacy, serves as an essential resource for authentication queries. While they do not issue certificates of authenticity, their archives contain valuable documentation about Judd's printed editions.
The Judd Foundation is in the process of compiling an up-to-date catalogue raisonné - a comprehensive resource documenting his printed body of work. While this project is ongoing, the 1993 publication Donald Judd, Prints and Works in Editions: A Catalogue Raisonné, edited by Jörg Schellmann and Mariette Josephus Jitta, serves as an essential reference point for all buyers and sellers of Judd’s work.
Judd worked exclusively with specific print studios, each maintaining meticulous records of their collaborations. Studios include Styria Studio and Derrière l'Etoile Studios in New York, where many of his woodcuts and etchings were produced, and kept detailed documentation of paper types, inks, and edition sizes. Publishing houses such as Brooke Alexander Editions, who published Judd’s Untitled (1990) print series, including Untitled (S.196), also maintain records of all published artworks. These records can, and should be, cross-referenced to verify authenticity.
Physical analysis of the print should focus on paper quality and printing technique. Judd often selected heavy-weight German Etching paper, or Japanese papers including Okawara and Tosa Hanga for his woodcuts, chosen for their ability to achieve sharp, clean edges and consistent ink retention. The precision of line and evenly distributed ink application were paramount to Judd, and any variation from his exacting standards might indicate issues with authenticity.
Edition And Signature
Judd's approach to signing and numbering his prints was characteristically methodical. His signature and the print’s edition number usually appear on the back of the print in pencil. Edition sizes varied but were generally small, ranging from 10 to 50 prints, with certain larger editions reaching 150.
Artist's proofs, marked “AP,” and printer’s proofs, marked “PP,” were typically limited to approximately six per edition, adding to their scarcity and making them particularly desirable among collectors. Judd maintained a rigorous oversight of the printing process, often requiring several proofs before approving the final edition. These proofs sometimes show subtle colour or compositional variations, offering a unique glimpse into Judd’s meticulous creative process.
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Has Your Donald Judd Print Been Kept In Good Condition?
The value of a Judd print is strongly influenced by its condition, with a focus on maintaining the clarity of geometric lines and the consistency of colour. Judd's prints, his woodcuts in particular, rely on absolute clean edges and uniform ink distribution to achieve their intended visual impact. Any deterioration can substantially affect both aesthetic appeal and market value.
The German Etching and Japanese papers Judd preferred are naturally resilient but remain susceptible to environmental damage and wear from external handling. Exposure to direct sunlight can also cause fading and paper deterioration, while fluctuating humidity will lead to warping or foxing. The heavy oil-based inks used in many of Judd’s prints can show signs of cracking if the print has been rolled or improperly handled. Over time, these inks may also develop a slight sheen where the surface has been touched.
In Judd's woodcuts and etchings, the embossed textures produced during printing should stay sharp and well-defined, as any flattening or wear on these raised areas can significantly reduce the print's value. The paper's surface should be free from scratches, abrasions, or indentations, as these “imperfections” disrupt Judd's intentional aesthetic. Professional conservators recommend storing prints flat in acid-free portfolios and handling should only be done wearing clean cotton gloves. If framed, UV-protective glass and acid-free mounting materials are essential to prevent deterioration of the print.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Donald Judd print, contact MyArtBroker.
When Is The Best Time To Sell My Donald Judd Print?
Judd’s print market is not immune to fluctuations, even for print works in pristine condition. Timing your sale strategically can make the difference between surpassing your high estimate and falling below your low estimate. Thus, carefully analysing market trends, seasonal shifts, and other relevant factors is essential for a successful sales process.
In 2020, MoMA held the first comprehensive retrospective of Judd’s work in the U.S. in over 30 years. Leading up to the exhibition in 2019 and continuing through its staging and beyond into 2021, the market for Judd's work–especially in the U.S.–saw a notable surge in demand. The year 2019 was particularly strong, with record or near-record sales, underscoring how major exhibitions can drive significant collector interest and elevate market performance. Similarly, anniversaries marking milestones in Minimalism or Judd’s career can create ideal selling opportunities. For example, the centenary of his birth in 2028 is likely to attract heightened interest from institutions and collectors alike.
Navigating market trends requires pinpointing periods of heightened interest in Minimalist art, particularly contemporary pieces with architectural and design influences. Collecting patterns for Judd's work often align with surrealist and pop art auction cycles, leading to steady value growth for his prints. This trend reflects an ongoing demand for his work across different art movements and suggests a generally upward trajectory for Judd’s print market.
MyArtBroker provides cutting-edge art tech tools to pinpoint the ideal time to sell your print. Our MyPortfolio collection management system includes an AI-driven value indicator, offering real-time valuations based on both public and private sales data. With this advanced tool, alongside our complimentary valuation services, we help you achieve the maximum possible value by identifying optimal market conditions for your sale.
Where Can I Sell My Donald Judd Print?
Selling A Donald Judd Print Via Auction House
Leading auction houses regularly feature Judd's prints in their post-war and contemporary art sales, affirming a global market presence for his print works. Auction houses have the marketing expertise to contextualise Judd's print works within the broader narrative of Minimalism and Post-War American art, positioned towards experienced collectors looking to acquire works with historical significance.
Extensive marketing efforts and prestigious preview events can generate excitement, resulting in competitive bidding for rare or important prints. However, auction house fees reach up to 25% of the hammer price, significantly impacting potential returns for seller’s. Public sales also carry inherent risks, where in the event of an unsold work, can impact future market value.
Its important for sellers to be aware of these market dynamics so that they can carefully consider timing. Auction calendars adhere to a strict schedule and successful sales of consigned works often depends on broader market conditions and the quality of other (similar) works offered in the same auction.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling A Donald Judd Via A Broker
Art brokers specialising in Post-War American art can offer a more tailored approach to selling Judd prints. Professional brokers maintain networks of collectors specifically interested in Minimalist art and can facilitate private sales with greater discretion and efficiency. Broker fees generally range from 10% to 20%, lower than typical auction house charges. Working with a broker can be particularly effective for prints that might appeal to specific collectors, such as those focused on Minimalist art or architectural themes. The personalised service allows for careful positioning of the work and targeted marketing to interested buyers. When selecting a broker, prioritise those with demonstrated experience and knowledge in Judd's body of work, understanding his niche artistic philosophy and market dynamics.
Selling A Donald Judd Via An Online Market Place
Digital platforms have expanded options for selling art, offering access to a global audience of collectors. While these venues might seem appealing for their convenience and lower fees, it is always advised to avoid unregulated platforms. If considering an online sale, choose specialised fine art platforms with robust authentication processes and experience handling prints by blue chip artists. Online marketplaces should offer secure payment systems and proper insurance for shipping. However, for high-value Judd prints, traditional sales channels through established brokers or auction houses typically provide better access to qualified buyers and stronger price realisation.
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At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security. Our due diligence process ensures the authentication and verification of artwork provenance, drawing upon our in-house expertise and collaborating with professional external contacts when needed. This approach effectively mitigates the risk of trading counterfeit or stolen art pieces.
Additionally, we minimise the risks associated with public sales. While public auctions may seem appealing, unsold prints can harm an artist's market. Private sales eliminate this risk and enable quicker liquidity release for your artwork compared to adhering to strict auction schedules that dictate when your work can be offered for sale.
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Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. We provide complimentary valuations and charge zero seller's fees, setting us apart from other private brokers and traditional auction houses. By minimising overhead costs, we allocate resources towards digital innovation and targeted marketing strategies within our network and house magazine.
When it comes to selling artwork, achieving the best price hinges on accessing a niche market with an established collector community. If you're looking to sell a print, turning to a specialist in the print market, like MyArtBroker, who can yield superior results compared to auction houses, which cater to broader artwork categories.
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Through our live Trading Floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and traditional buying landscape in the digital era. By offering real time market data and insights gleaned from global collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Read our cohesive report to navigate the art market as a seller: A Guide to Selling Prints in the Current Market.
Donald Judd Collection Management With MyPortfolio
In addition to our live trading floor, MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio serves as a collection management system, empowering collectors to curate and oversee their prints and editions collection. This feature grants users access to our print market database, uniquely tied to our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This algorithm scans and analyses both public auction and private sales data to determine real time valuations of individual print works, factoring in various aspects such as condition, colour, and other factors affecting value.
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Emerging art tech tools are vital in navigating the current, and evolving, digital art market landscape. For instance, by adding Donald Judd prints from our website to the MyPortfolio dashboard, users gain insight into unique sale opportunities and observe market performance and fluctuations as they happen, streamlining the sales process effortlessly. Our pioneering technology has revolutionised art portfolio management, making it more accessible and equipping users with data-driven insights for informed decisions. MyArtBroker harnesses cutting-edge technology driven by data, coupled with a team of industry experts, to deliver an exceptional experience. Our professionals work closely with clients, utilising the MyPortfolio dashboard, to provide personalised guidance for creating a profitable art collection. By merging technology and expertise, we are committed to offering unparalleled curation and customer service.
Donald Judd
47 works
