Name: The Cook
Brand: David Hockney
Rating: 5 (236 reviews)

Track auction value trend

The value of David Hockney's The Cook (signed) is estimated to be worth between £1,100 and £1,650. This etching print, created in 1969, has demonstrated an average annual growth rate of 5%. This work has a steady auction history, having been sold 5 times at auction since its initial sale on 18th May 2011. The hammer price over the past five years has ranged from £1,100 in October 2020 to £1,650 in November 2019. The edition size of this artwork is limited to 100.

Meaning & Analysis

The Cook by David Hockney, created in 1969, is an etching and aquatint on W S Hodgkinson paper. This artwork depicts a stern-looking cook, part of Hockney's Illustrations For Six Fairy Tales From The Brothers Grimm series.

The Cook showcases Hockney's adept use of etching and aquatint techniques, creating a detailed and textured representation of the character. The cook's stern expression and exaggerated features are set against a patterned background, highlighting Hockney's skill in combining intricate line work with broader tonal areas. The artwork's historical context, rooted in the rich tradition of fairy tales, adds depth to its visual appeal, inviting viewers to explore the interplay between text and image in Hockney's work.

British-born artist David Hockney is a kaleidoscopic force in the art world. Born in 1937, Hockney's vibrant palette and innovative techniques have left an indelible mark on contemporary art. A pioneer of the British Pop Art movement in the 1960s, he seamlessly transitioned through various styles, from photo collages to vivid landscapes. Renowned for his exploration of light and space, Hockney's versatility extends to painting, printmaking, photography, and stage design. A captivating storyteller, his works often capture the essence of modern life with a playful yet profound touch. With a career spanning decades, Hockney remains an enduring visionary in the ever-evolving art world.