Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Cleon Peterson Print Index
End Of Empire, Kylix (Black)
Summary
End Of Empire, Kylix (Black) (2018) is a hand-pulled black-and-white screen print in a striking horizontal 11 x 34 inch format on 290gsm Coventry Rag with deckled edges. Self-released in an edition of 150, signed and numbered, it takes its name from the kylix, the shallow wide-bowled ancient Greek drinking cup.
Why It Matters
The elongated 34-inch horizontal band mirrors the wide, shallow profile of the kylix drinking cup, whose interior often bore black-figure scenes revealed as wine drained. This clever format-to-vessel match is the most literal in the series, making the print a standout for its formal wit and processional composition.
Collector Perspective
The unusual wide-and-short format gives this print distinctive shelf presence and completes the End Of Empire vessel trio's range of shapes. At an edition of 150 it remains accessible, though its non-standard dimensions call for custom framing. Its horizontal sweep makes it a compelling anchor when hung with the amphora and aryballos.
Historical Context
The kylix was a communal drinking vessel of ancient Greek symposia, its tondo interior a canvas for figural scenes. Peterson's 2018 print revives that tradition, spreading his combat imagery across a cup-inspired band and reinforcing the series' theme of empires that drank, feasted, and fell.
FAQ
What is a kylix?
A shallow, wide-bowled ancient Greek drinking cup often decorated with black-figure scenes inside.
Why is this print so wide and short?
Its 11 x 34 inch format echoes the broad, shallow profile of the kylix vessel it is named for.
Is it part of a series?
Yes, one of three End Of Empire vessel prints, with Amphora and Aryballos.
What are the edition and stock?
Edition of 150, signed and numbered on 290gsm Coventry Rag with deckled edges.
About the Artist
Cleon Peterson (born 1973, Seattle) is an American artist known for stark, high-contrast compositions depicting scenes of violence, power, and social conflict. Working primarily in a limited palette — often black on a single bold ground — he renders chaotic tableaux of figures locked in struggle, exploring themes of authority, brutality, and moral disorder in contemporary society. His graphic, almost hieroglyphic style has appeared in paintings, murals, and a substantial catalogue of signed prints, as well as collaborations spanning fashion and public art. He is based in Los Angeles.
Collecting Cleon Peterson at Gauntlet Gallery
Which Cleon Peterson works should I collect?
His signed, numbered screenprints are the core of the market, prized for their bold duotone impact. Look for clean registration and strong condition. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes complete, well-preserved impressions with documentation.
How is a Cleon Peterson piece authenticated?
We sell his works with documented provenance and the edition's signature and numbering. Each piece is photographed as-is, including signature and edition details, so you can verify before purchase.
What drives value?
Edition size, image iconicity, color scheme, condition, and provenance drive value. Low-numbered, large-format, and hand-embellished works command the strongest premiums.