Les Mouches À Marier No.8 © Jean-Paul Riopelle 1985
Leah Mentzis, Partnerships Manager[email protected]
Interested in buying or selling
Jean-Paul Riopelle?
Jean-Paul Riopelle
27 works
Key Takeaways
Jean-Paul Riopelle prints have seen a surge in value, with five of the top 10 auction sales occurring in 2024. Individual prints typically fetch between £1,000 and £5,000, with some exceptional pieces achieving over £10,000. The record sale for a Riopelle print is held by Echo (1967), which sold for £14,246 in 2018. Lithographs from the 1960s and 1970s are particularly sought after, with series like Les Suites commanding high prices due to their historical significance and rarity. Authentication requires thorough provenance research, reference to the catalogue raisonné compiled by Yseult Riopelle, and expert evaluation of paper quality and printing techniques. Riopelle's distinctive signature and edition numbering are crucial identifiers. Strategic timing of sales, often aligned with major exhibitions or anniversaries, can greatly influence prices, as demonstrated by the surge in sales following the 2023 retrospective at the National Gallery of Canada.
Jean-Paul Riopelle was a Canadian artist who gained international recognition for his Abstract Expressionist works. His prints, much like his paintings, are characterised by their dynamic compositions, vivid colours, and textural richness. This guide aims to navigate the market for Riopelle's prints, offering insights into valuation, authentication, and selling strategies for those looking to part with their pieces.
Riopelle's artistic journey began in Montreal, where he studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and the École du Meuble. His move to Paris in 1947 marked a turning point, exposing him to European abstract art movements. This unique fusion of North American and European influences is evident in his printmaking, which encompasses lithography, etching, and aquatint techniques. Riopelle's prints often feature abstract landscapes, gestural marks, and a palette inspired by the Canadian wilderness.
Throughout his career, Riopelle collaborated with several prestigious print studios and publishers, including Maeght Éditeur in Paris. These partnerships resulted in some of his most coveted print series, showcasing his evolving style from the 1950s through to the 1990s.
How Much Do Jean-Paul Riopelle Prints Sell For?
In recent years, there has been a considerable surge in the value of Riopelle prints, with five of the top 10 auction sales occurring in 2024. The artist’s significant standing, and the market’s enduring appreciation for abstract art, mean that purchasing his printed work is both a great investment and an opportunity to own a significant work of art for a more accessible price. Individual prints by Riopelle typically fetch between £1,000 and £5,000, with lithographs from the 1960s and 1970s performing particularly well, often achieving prices above this range.
Riopelle's work is known for his distinctive technique of layering colours and shapes to create depth, energy, and movement - something that is very well-suited to the print medium. His lithographs and etchings are perfect embodiments of his artistic style. As such, his most valuable prints are those that demonstrate this most effectively, with dynamic, colourful compositions and intense detail. In 2018, Echo (1967), a vast lithograph of rich, overlapping colour, with additional collage elements, sold for £14,246 at auction, setting the record for highest price achieved by a Riopelle print. Four years later, in 2022, Sans Titre (1985) sold for £12,111. Although this piece is considered one of Riopelle’s later prints, it originates with a painting created using the brush-less mosaic technique best associated with the 1950s; the thick, sculptural quality of the paint can be easily seen.
Other popular print series include his Les Suites series (1972) - monochromatic prints that were, at the time, the largest lithographs ever produced in Europe. Their scale, significance in the history of printmaking, and relative rarity (at an edition of only 30 prints) ensure they stand out for collectors. In 2024, Suite Fancy (1972) sold for £7,634.
Series that appear frequently at auction include Les Mouches À Marier and Auprès De Mon Lac, prints from both of which have sold for over £3,000 as recently as 2021. These prints are all examples of Riopelle’s profound connection to nature and its influence on his style and compositions. They demonstrate the mosaic effect of his paintings and the experimental techniques he used to capture this in print form.
How Do You Authenticate A Jean-Paul Riopelle Print?
The most vital part of print authentication is establishing provenance - reviewing the paper trail that illustrates the pattern of ownership and exhibition from the print’s creation. Documentation such as certificates of authenticity from the artist’s studio or publishing house, receipts from gallery or auction sales, exhibition catalogues, or correspondence with an authoritative body, is all worth collecting and preserving alongside your print.
Professional appraisers will be able to assess the materials used in your print and ensure they align with expectations for the edition. Paper type plays an important part in this process. Riopelle’s Les Suites series, for example, was printed on Arches paper, while the print Clairière (1969) was printed on Chiffon de Mandeure paper. High-quality papers such as these will bear stamps or watermarks that make them easy to identify. The printing process itself, whether lithography, etching, or a combination of techniques, should also be consistent with Riopelle's known practices for the period in which the print was produced, and can only be confidently verified by an expert in Riopelle’s printmaking.
The definitive resource for authenticating Riopelle's work is the catalogue raisonné compiled by Yseult Riopelle, the artist's daughter. This comprehensive catalogue documents Riopelle's entire artistic output, including his prints, and provides detailed information on techniques, editions, and variations. You should be able to directly compare your print to the entries in the catalogue.
Riopelle worked with various publishing houses and print studios throughout his career, including Maeght Éditeur. Each of these collaborations has its own characteristics in terms of paper, technique, style, and stamps or signatures, which can be identified and used to corroborate the authenticity of your print. Understanding these nuances and the evolution of Riopelle's printmaking practice over time is essential for accurate authentication and valuation.
Edition and Signature
Jean-Paul Riopelle's approach to signing and numbering his prints was generally consistent throughout his career, although there are some variations to be aware of. Typically, a very neat, looped signature of “riopelle” in lowercase appears in pencil in the lower right corner of the print, often accompanied by the year of creation. The edition number is not always found on the front of the print; when visible, it is written as a fraction.
Riopelle's print editions varied in size, with some limited to as few as 30 copies, while others reached 150 or more. Artist's proofs, often marked “E.A.” (épreuve d'artiste), are highly sought after by collectors. In some cases, particularly with experimental prints or those created for special occasions, Riopelle produced unique variants or very small editions, which can be especially valuable. “H.C.”, or Hors Commerce, prints are extremely rare; these non-commercial prints were often given as gifts by Riopelle to close friends and family.
Browse Jean-Paul Riopelle prints on the Trading Floor and find out more about the print market growth on the MAB100 Print Index.
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Has Your Jean-Paul Riopelle Print Been Kept In Good Condition?
The condition of a Jean-Paul Riopelle print plays a crucial role in determining its value. Riopelle's printmaking techniques were as dynamic and innovative as his paintings, often resulting in complex, multi-layered works that require careful preservation. When assessing your print, pay close attention to colour retention. Riopelle often used bold, contrasting hues. Any fading or discolouration can significantly impact the print's aesthetic appeal and value. This is especially true for prints from the 1960s and 1970s, when Riopelle's use of colour was at its most expressive.
Riopelle favoured high-quality, acid-free papers, including handmade Japanese washi. These papers are generally resilient, but they can still be susceptible to environmental damage. Look for signs of foxing (brown spots caused by oxidation), acid burn around the edges, or any discolouration. The texture of the paper should be consistent with the original print run - any changes could indicate exposure to humidity or improper handling.
A unique aspect of some Riopelle prints is the incorporation of collage elements. In certain series, particularly from the late 1960s onwards, Riopelle experimented with adding paper cutouts or other materials to his prints. These mixed-media works require special attention to preserve their finish and value. Check that all collage elements are securely attached and have not warped or separated from the base print - any lifting may require the expertise of a conservationist to fix. Use raking light to examine the print's surface for any surface damage, such as creases or indentations. For Riopelle's intaglio prints, such as etchings and aquatints, pay attention to the embossing and plate marks. These should be crisp and well-defined. Any flattening of these elements can indicate improper storage or framing pressure.
To best preserve your Riopelle print’s condition, store flat in acid-free portfolios, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. If the print is framed, ensure it's protected by UV-resistant glass and acid-free matting.
For a comprehensive assessment, especially for high-value prints or those with collage elements, consider consulting a paper conservator specialising in mid-20th century prints. They can provide a detailed condition report and advise on any necessary conservation measures. Remember, while minor imperfections might be acceptable given the age of some prints, significant damage or improper restoration can substantially decrease value.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Jean-Paul Riopelle print, contact MyArtBroker.
When Is The Best Time To Sell My Jean-Paul Riopelle Print?
The market for Riopelle prints has shown steady growth; however, interest can dip and spike in line with cultural events and the cyclical nature of the secondary art market. For this reason, staying abreast of news, trends, and events will help you time the sale of your Riopelle print most profitably.
The biggest influence on the print market is often the exhibition schedule at major galleries. Prominent retrospectives are likely to generate more interest from new and existing collectors alike. The National Gallery of Canada held a major retrospective of Riopelle’s work in 2023, titled Crossroads in Time. This exhibition was followed by 12 months of near-record sales across Canada, including two of the top four print sales to date: Clairière (1969) and Été Indien (1969). The exhibition was held to commemorate the centenary of Riopelle’s birth - anniversaries such as this can also play a big part in driving the ebbs and flows of the art market.
One of the best ways to keep up-to-date with trends is by monitoring sales results and value trajectory reports from major auction houses and galleries. These resources can provide insights into which periods or techniques of Riopelle's printmaking are currently in highest demand, as well as broader trends in Abstract Expressionist and post-war art. For instance, if a pattern of high-value sales of Riopelle's early lithographs from the 1950s emerges, it might be an opportune time to sell works from that period.
Seasonal factors can also play a role in timing your sale. The art market typically sees increased activity in the spring and autumn, coinciding with major art fairs and auction seasons. However, for prints in the mid-range value category, which includes many Riopelle prints, the market can be active year-round, especially through private sales.
MyArtBroker offers advanced art tech tools to help you determine the optimal time to sell. Our MyPortfolio service features an AI-powered value indicator that provides real-time valuations of individual prints based on both public and private sales data. Combined with our complimentary valuations, we can help ensure your print achieves maximum value by selling at the perfect moment.
Where Can I Sell My Jean-Paul Riopelle Print?
SELLING A JEAN-PAUL RIOPELLE VIA A BROKER
Art brokers offer a more personalised approach to selling Riopelle prints. These professionals often have established networks of collectors interested in mid-20th century Canadian art and Abstract Expressionism. A broker can facilitate private sales with a level of discretion and efficiency that public auctions don't provide. It is also often much less expensive - working with a broker typically involves lower fees, generally ranging from 10% to 20%. They can be particularly effective for selling Riopelle prints that might appeal to specific collectors, such as those focused on the School of Paris or Canadian Modernism. The key is finding a broker with a proven track record in handling Riopelle's work and a deep understanding of his market. Their expertise can be invaluable in positioning your print effectively and reaching the right collectors, especially for mid-range or niche Riopelle prints.
SELLING A JEAN-PAUL RIOPELLE VIA AUCTION HOUSE
Auction houses remain a cornerstone of the fine art market, particularly for high-value Riopelle prints. Houses like Christie's and Sotheby's, with their global reach, can attract serious collectors from Riopelle's key markets in Canada and France. The competitive atmosphere of auctions can drive prices upward, especially for rare works from Riopelle's most celebrated periods. However, this route comes with considerations. Auction house fees can be substantial, often reaching 25% of the hammer price. There's also an inherent unpredictability - your print might exceed expectations or fail to meet its reserve. You will also have limited control over timing, as you'll need to align with the auction house's schedule. Despite these factors, for valuable or historically significant Riopelle prints, the auction route can be highly effective in achieving strong results.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
SELLING A JEAN-PAUL RIOPELLE VIA ONLINE MARKETPLACE
Online art marketplaces have emerged as a modern alternative for selling art, offering a platform to reach a global audience of collectors and enthusiasts. These digital venues can be effective for more accessible Riopelle prints, potentially enabling faster sales with reduced fees compared to traditional channels. These platforms allow you to control listing details and pricing, with tools for showcasing high-quality images and comprehensive descriptions. However, selling valuable artworks online comes with unique challenges. There's a risk of undervaluing the work due to platform limitations, and authentication concerns are more pronounced in the digital sphere. For high-value or rare Riopelle prints, approach online sales with caution. If considering this route, opt for specialised fine art platforms with robust verification processes. These are more likely to attract serious collectors and provide necessary security measures for significant transactions.
Why Sell Your Jean-Paul Riopelle With Myartbroker?
A Dedicated Broker
MyArtBroker offers a distinctive service connecting clients with their dedicated personal broker, ensuring a secure transaction through our online digital platform. Our specialists excel at sourcing direct buyers for consigned prints via our live trading floor, where users within our extensive network can express interest in specific prints and multiples by particular artists, whether they intend to sell, buy, or simply enquire about a specific print. Our team is approachable, passionate, and consistently provides updates on the art market and artists. We guide sellers through a seamless transaction process, establishing a fair market valuation based on realistic sale prices and offering free advice on the optimal timing for selling, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the art market.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security in every art sale. Our stringent 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 dictating when your work can be offered for sale.
0% Seller’s Fees, 100% Of The Time
Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. As part of our standard practice, 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, yields superior results compared to approaching an auction house, which caters to broader categories of artwork.
Our Network
Through our live trading floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and trading landscape in the digital era. Offering real time market data and insights gleaned from worldwide collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Jean-Paul Riopelle 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.
Read What Powers MyArtBroker's Technology? In Conversation With Stuart Jamieson, Financial Quant to learn more about our algorithm.
Leah Mentzis, Partnerships Manager[email protected]
Interested in buying or selling
Jean-Paul Riopelle?
Jean-Paul Riopelle
27 works
