Artist: Peter Max
Title: American Flag Plate
Medium: Acrylic Painting on Plate
Dimensions: 10.5" diameter x 1.5" deep
Year: c. 1990-1995
Edition: Original
Inscription: Signed "Max" on bottom front
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity
American Flag Plate (c. 1990-1995) is an exceptionally rare and unique work by Peter Max, featuring his iconic American Flag motif in an original acrylic painting on plate. Unlike most of his work, this piece is a one-of-a-kind creation, not part of a series or screen-printed edition, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
The plate's 10.5" diameter and 1.5" deep structure serve as a distinctive canvas for Max's vibrant interpretation of the American Flag. Known for his bold use of color and dynamic imagery, Max's take on this symbol of national pride is infused with his signature bright, expressive hues and swirling patterns that bring a contemporary and energetic twist to the traditional flag. Peter Max's American Flag plate is a striking and personal homage to American culture.
As one of Max's most beloved and recurring themes, the American Flag stands as a powerful emblem in his body of work. This plate, signed "Max" on the bottom front and accompanied by a Gallery Certificate of Authenticity, is an extraordinary example of the artist's ability to transform an everyday object into an extraordinary work of art. Because it is an original piece rather than part of any series, this plate offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Peter Max's creative legacy, further amplified by its bold composition and vibrant color palette.
About Peter Max
Peter Max (1937–2024) was a visionary artist whose bold, psychedelic imagery and vibrant color palette made him one of the most recognizable figures in contemporary pop art. Best known for his cosmic-inspired compositions and expressive portraits, Max's work became an emblem of the 1960s counterculture movement and continued to evolve across decades, influencing art, fashion, and popular culture.
Early Life and Artistic Influences
Born in Berlin, Germany, Peter Max Finkelstein's early years were shaped by a nomadic journey across the world. His family fled Nazi Germany and lived in Shanghai, China, for nearly a decade before moving to Israel, France, and eventually settling in Brooklyn, New York, in 1953. This global upbringing exposed Max to a diverse array of artistic styles and traditions, which would later influence his dynamic, multicultural aesthetic.
Max trained at the Art Students League of New York, where he developed his classical painting skills. However, the emergence of Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism, and Pop Art captivated his imagination, leading him to forge a unique visual language that merged fine art with commercial appeal.
The Rise of a Cultural Icon
Max's career took off in the 1960s when his psychedelic, dreamlike paintings became symbolic of an era defined by free expression, space exploration, and spiritual awakening. His art appeared on album covers, advertising campaigns, and magazine spreads, solidifying his place in the pop art movement alongside artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.
His work frequently featured cosmic landscapes, floating figures, and celestial themes, reflecting the fascination with space exploration during the time. Max's art captured the collective optimism of the late 1960s, and his vibrant posters became must-have collectibles for a generation embracing peace, love, and self-discovery.
Continued Success and Evolution
Max's artistic influence extended far beyond the 60s. In the following decades, he adapted his style to include portraits, patriotic imagery, and large-scale commissions. He created artwork for major events such as the Super Bowl, the Olympics, and the World Cup, and painted multiple U.S. Presidents, including Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. His reimaginings of the Statue of Liberty became one of his most celebrated series, symbolizing hope and freedom.
While Max remained a commercial success, his later years were overshadowed by legal battles over his estate and concerns about his declining health. Despite these challenges, his impact on contemporary art remains profound.
A Lasting Legacy
Peter Max's legacy is one of color, imagination, and cultural significance. His ability to blend fine art with commercial appeal set him apart as a true innovator in the art world. His work continues to be celebrated in galleries, museums, and private collections worldwide, serving as a testament to the power of creativity and self-expression.
Even after his passing, Max's vibrant vision endures—his art remains a symbol of boundless energy, optimism, and the enduring spirit of pop culture.