Name: The Sexton Disguised As A Ghost
Brand: David Hockney
Rating: 5 (236 reviews)

Track auction value trend

The value of David Hockney's The Sexton Disguised As A Ghost (signed) is estimated to be worth between £1,750 and £2,600. Over the past five years, the hammer price has ranged from £3,000 in April 2022 to £4,009 in March 2021. This work has shown consistent value growth, with an average annual growth rate of 1%. This etching print, created in 1969, is a rare artwork with an auction history of 12 total sales since its entry to the market in June 2007. The edition size of this artwork is limited to 100.

Meaning & Analysis

The Sexton Disguised As A Ghost is a 1969 etching and aquatint by David Hockney. It depicts a solitary, textured stone figure standing amidst smaller stones, representing a ghostly presence. This print is part of Hockney's Illustrations For Six Fairy Tales From The Brothers Grimm series, showcasing his interpretation of the classic tale “The Sexton and the Ghost”.

In The Sexton Disguised As A Ghost, Hockney employs etching and aquatint techniques to create a stark, minimalist scene. The central figure, a tall, textured stone, stands prominently against a blank background, its spectral form accentuated by the surrounding smaller stones. This piece is one of 39 etchings in Hockney's Illustrations for Six Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm series, where he reimagines traditional stories through his distinctive visual language. The etching's simplicity and careful composition demonstrate Hockney's skill in creating evocative imagery with minimal detail. The artist's choice to represent the ghost as a stone figure reflects his innovative approach to visual storytelling, challenging conventional depictions of supernatural entities.

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.