Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Cleon Peterson Print Index
The Horseman (White)
Summary
The Horseman (White), 2015, is a glazed porcelain sculpture standing 14 inches on a 12-inch base, issued in an edition of 10 by Library Street Collective. The larger of Peterson's ceramic figures, it brings his iconography of the mounted aggressor—an enduring symbol of conquest and domination—into a substantial three-dimensional form.
Why It Matters
The horseman motif carries deep art-historical weight, from equestrian monuments to apocalyptic riders, and Peterson repurposes it as a figure of menace. As a sculpture rather than a print, it is a rare chance to own his imagery in physical volume. At 14 inches it commands more presence than most of his ceramic output.
Collector Perspective
Larger and more imposing than Kill Your Sons, this is a centerpiece object for a Peterson collection. The edition of 10 and the fragility of glazed porcelain keep supply extremely tight. Collectors should prioritize the white glaze's crispness and the intact base, both of which drive desirability within the small run.
Historical Context
Produced in 2015 through Library Street Collective, the piece sits within Peterson's broader project of depicting power, cruelty, and hierarchy. The equestrian figure recurs across his paintings and murals as shorthand for those who dominate; the sculpture makes that recurring painted character permanent and freestanding.
FAQ
How does this differ from Kill Your Sons?
The Horseman is larger at 14 inches and depicts a mounted figure, while Kill Your Sons is a smaller standing form.
What is the edition size?
Limited to 10 glazed porcelain examples in the white colorway.
Who released it?
Library Street Collective, Peterson's Detroit gallery.
Why is the horseman significant in his work?
The mounted figure is a recurring symbol of conquest and domination across his paintings and murals.
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.