Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Cleon Peterson Print Index
The Return (Gold)
Summary
"The Return (Gold)" (2016) is a wide panoramic hand-pulled screen print at 42 x 16 inches on 290gsm Coventry Rag with deckled edges, signed and numbered in an edition of 125. The elongated horizontal band stages a processional scene of homecoming and reckoning, its narrow proportions echoing the continuous narrative friezes of antiquity.
Why It Matters
At an edition of just 125, "The Return" has one of the smaller runs among Peterson's self-released panoramic prints, tightening its scarcity relative to the more common 150-count editions. The near-42-inch width and friezelike format make it a commanding display piece and a strong example of his horizontal narrative compositions.
Collector Perspective
The lower 125-count edition gives "The Return" a modest scarcity edge over Peterson's 150-run panoramas, a detail attentive collectors weigh. The 42-inch width requires custom framing and careful handling of the long deckled sheet. A crisp pencil signature and low edition number are the primary value drivers for this format.
Historical Context
Peterson's panoramic prints translate the horizontal storytelling of ancient pottery and relief into a modern idiom of conflict. "The Return," made in 2016, uses this elongated stage to depict a homecoming charged with tension, consistent with his career-long interest in cycles of power, retribution, and the aftermath of violence.
FAQ
What is notable about the edition size?
At 125 impressions, it is one of the smaller runs among Peterson's self-released panoramic prints, slightly scarcer than his common 150-count editions.
What are its dimensions?
It is a wide panoramic sheet at 42 x 16 inches on 290gsm Coventry Rag paper with deckled edges.
Is it signed?
Yes, each impression is hand-signed and numbered in pencil by Cleon Peterson.
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.