This listing is for the complete set of all four of Andy Warhol’s original gallery opening advertisements for his 1985 Reigning Queens exhibition at Castelli Uptown Gallery in Manhattan. These fine examples feature Queen Elizabeth II of England, Queen Beatrix of Netherlands, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, and Queen Ntombi Twala of Swaziland.

Created in 1985, “Reigning Queens” is Andy Warhol’s largest portfolio of silkscreen prints. The series features 16 colorful prints portraying four ruling queens at that time: Queen Elizabeth II of England, Queen Beatrix of Netherlands, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, and Queen Ntombi Twala of Swaziland. Notably, “Reigning Queens” only includes queens who assumed the throne by birthright, not through marriage. Warhol, who was fascinated by universal images, based these silkscreens on the queens’ official state portraits, choosing these depictions because they were often mass-produced on stamps and currency. In 2012, England’s Queen Elizabeth II celebrated 60 years on the throne by buying four of Warhol’s portraits of her for the Royal Collection, bringing the Pop artist one step closer to his notorious wish: “I want to be as famous as the Queen of England.”

Based on official or media photographs, Warhol incorporated abstract blocks of color that, although screen-printed, appear collaged. He also combined printed elements derived from drawings, which emphasize details such as jewelry. A Royal edition of the portfolio was published that incorporated diamond dust. The by-product of the manufacture of industrial-grade diamonds, this dust gave the prints a sparkly, extravagant effect.

These original print advertisements rarely appear for sale, especially in such fine condition. These examples have only slight tanning around the edges due to their age. They have never been folded or framed. Payment via PayPal. Shipping to confirmed address only. Signature required upon delivery. If you like this lot, check out my other listings featuring Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol.