Gerhard Richter Wald (4) Value Guide

Gerhard Richter's Wald (4) is a seminal 1990 oil on canvas that exemplifies the artist's mastery of the squeegee technique to create a dense, atmospheric forest scene. This piece is highly collectible as part of a specific four-part series that bridges the gap between pure abstraction and the evocative textures of the natural world.

What Is Gerhard Richter Wald (4) Worth?

The typical price range for Gerhard Richter Wald (4) is $15,000,000 - $18,000,000 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The painting's status as part of the prestigious four-part 'Wald' (Forest) cycle significantly enhances its market desirability.
• Physical condition of the oil layers is critical, as the complex textures are central to the work's aesthetic and financial value.
• The current high demand for Richter's 1990s abstract works, which frequently command prices between $15,000,000 and $18,000,000.
• Historical significance of the piece in challenging traditional representation through the blurring of abstraction and figuration.

How to Identify Gerhard Richter Wald (4)?

• Look for the characteristic horizontal streaks and multi-layered textures created by Richter's signature squeegee method.
• Verify the 1990 execution date and German origin, consistent with the height of his abstract period.
• Check for the specific color palette of dark tones punctuated by flashes of orange and green, unique to the Wald series.
• Confirm the provenance and inclusion in Richter's official catalogue raisonné to ensure authenticity.

History of Gerhard Richter Wald (4)

Gerhard Richter is a renowned German artist whose work often blurs the lines between abstraction and figuration. His 'Wald' (Forest) series, to which 'Wald (4)' belongs, was created in 1990. These paintings utilize a squeegee technique, where layers of paint are dragged across the canvas, creating textured and multi-layered surfaces. Richter's abstract works challenge traditional notions of painting and representation, often inviting viewers to find their own interpretations within the rich, complex visual fields he creates. The 'Wald' series, in particular, suggests the natural world through color and texture rather than explicit depiction, reflecting Richter's ongoing exploration of perception and illusion.