Name: Cats Named Sam IV 59
Brand: Andy Warhol
Rating: 5 (236 reviews)

Track auction value trend

The value of Andy Warhol’s Cats Named Sam IV 59 (unsigned) is estimated to be worth between £14,000 and £21,000. This lithograph print from 1954 has shown consistent value growth, with an auction history of two sales since its entry to the market in October 2009. This is a rare artwork with an auction history of two sales since its entry to the market in October 2009. The edition size of this artwork is limited to 190.

Meaning & Analysis

Printed in 1954, Cats Named Sam IV 59 is an offset lithograph by Andy Warhol in which the artist’s subject matter shifts from consumer and celebrity culture to cats. This print depicts a cat in a crouching position rendered in vibrant red with yellow eyes staring to the right of the composition. The cat’s name, Sam, is written in simple calligraphy beneath its long tail. While most the cats in this series are depicted sitting proudly or staring coquettishly out the print, this cat seems more reserved.

Cats Named Sam IV 59 is one of 16 lithograph prints in the Cats Named Sam series, produced by Warhol in 1954 to accompany the children's book he published, 25 Cats Name (sic) Sam and One Blue Pussy. The inspiration for this series came from Warhol's mother, Julia, who moved in with the artist in 1952 and accumulated 25 pet cats. This series is more personal than Warhol's other series, such as Campbell's Soup or Brillo Box which were inspired by highly impersonal, global consumer culture.