“Chinese Planet,” created by Sam Francis in 1963, is a remarkable piece of lithographic artwork firmly rooted in the Abstract Expressionism movement. This abstract genre piece is currently housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork, “Chinese Planet,” is a composition that exemplifies the abstract expressionist ethos, characterized by vigorous application of paint and spontaneous or automatic techniques. The lithography medium enables a rich textural quality and dynamic range of expression, while the abstract aesthetic invites viewers into an exploration of color, form, and spatial relationships. Though a specific geographic allusion is noted in its title, the piece evokes a sense of universal contemplation through its non-representational form. The piece is a testament to Sam Francis’s skill in creating depth and movement within the confines of two-dimensional space.