Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Cleon Peterson Print Index
The Return (Sculpture)
Summary
The Return is a 2022 blackened bronze sculpture published by Avant Arte, measuring 30.7 x 35 x 11.8 cm on an aluminum base. It renders Peterson's recurring horseback warrior in three dimensions, translating his flat, hard-edged figuration into sleek sculptural form. The piece extends his epic battle imagery into a collectible object.
Why It Matters
Moving from print to bronze marks a significant expansion of Peterson's practice, giving his archetypal warrior physical presence. The horse-and-rider motif, drawn from histories of conquest, embodies humankind's instinct for domination, the artist's central subject. Published by Avant Arte, it carries the production standards of a leading contemporary-editions house.
Collector Perspective
A blackened bronze on an aluminum base is a materially serious object, and Avant Arte's publishing pedigree adds provenance weight. Sculptures occupy a higher tier than Peterson's paper editions, appealing to collectors seeking depth in a holding. Its compact scale and dark finish make it a striking centerpiece for display alongside his prints.
Historical Context
The horseback warrior is an enduring symbol of conquest across art history, from equestrian monuments to battle friezes. Peterson invokes it to expose the romantic fantasy of returning to an idealized past, warning of its destructive pull. Avant Arte's 2022 edition brought his critique into sculpture, a medium that lends his archetypes lasting material form.
FAQ
What material is the sculpture made from?
It is a blackened bronze sculpture mounted on an aluminum base.
Who published it?
It was published by Avant Arte, a contemporary art editions house.
What does the imagery depict?
It portrays Peterson's recurring horseback warrior, a symbol of conquest and humankind's instinct for domination.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 30.7 x 35 x 11.8 cm.
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.