Andy Warhol is arguably the most important American artist of the 20th century. In the 1950s, he was an in-demand and celebrated illustrator working for New York's toniest publications (like Harper's Bazaar) and elegant shops (such as Bonwit Teller) in addition to many smaller independent fashion companies.

Throughout the decade, Warhol received numerous awards and accolades for his illustrations - yet he found it difficult to surpass the designation of “commercial artist”. It wasn’t until the mid-1950s when Warhol completed a successful campaign for shoe retailer Miller & Sons, that he was finally granted widespread recognition for his renderings. Following repeated commissions, Warhol established shoes as a recurring motif in his work, a theme that he would revisit even as his style evolved over the years. 

“A Whole Stocking Full of Good Wishes” is emblematic of Warhol’s work during the late 1950s, having established his reputation with drawings of clothes, accessories, and stylized beauties in a distinctively elegant but playful aesthetic. Working within the niche, Warhol created holiday-themed greeting cards for Tiffany & Co. from 1956-1962, depicting classic symbols such as ornaments, Christmas trees, and of course, shoes decked with holly, each card as whimsical and joyous as this piece. 

In keeping up with the holiday spirit, this work is a family affair featuring the signature script of Warhol’s mother, Julia Warhola. The two would collaborate often, imagining spirited imagery that was contrary to the adversity they faced during Warhol’s formative years. Acknowledging the hardship of his childhood, it’s no surprise that Warhol would later immerse himself in the fanciful nature of Christmas, using materialism as an escape from his unpleasant memories. 

Perhaps it was his early exposure to mass commercialization that increased Warhol’s draw towards objects related to ubiquitous cultural archetypes and consumerism, making this piece a marvelous precursor to Pop Art.

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“A Whole Stocking Full of Good Wishes” 

USA, 1955

Offset lithograph on paper

Signed in the plate

Estate’s embossed signature and archive number on verso.

22”H 17”W (work)

30.25"H 25.25"W (framed) 

Framed with museum glass

Minor handling creases. Overall very good condition.

Provenance: The Estate of Andy Warhol.