Gauntlet Gallery — Retna Print Index
El Mescalero
Work Summary & Collector Notes
El Mescalero is documented in this catalog as a 2018 Etching. The saved release record lists dimensions of 49 x 38 cm. The saved record attributes the release to Print Them All. The cataloged edition information is 33.
Collector notes: The saved release record describes: Edition of 33. The saved release record describes: signed; numbered. Verify each feature against a documented example of this edition.
Why It Matters
Etching is a comparatively rare medium in Retna's output, which is dominated by screenprints and lithographs. As a debut drypoint tied to a named character, this work documents an expansion of both his technique and his personal iconography, making it notable to collectors tracking his medium range.
Collector Perspective
The small edition of 33 and the intimate 49 x 38 cm scale give this an object-like, print-connoisseur appeal distinct from his large statement pieces. Drypoint's characteristic burr and plate mark are part of its value; inspect for the crisp intaglio impression alongside the signature and numbering.
Historical Context
The 'Brimstone' character and El Mescalero name reflect Retna's narrative and Southwestern references. His turn to punta seca in 2018 shows an artist deliberately engaging traditional intaglio methods, further connecting his street-derived script to historical printmaking disciplines.
Documented Release Details
- Object type
- Editioned print or object
- Release date
- 2018
- Release-date note
- Catalog-listed release year from the saved secondary record; primary release-page confirmation remains pending.
- Medium and materials
- Etching; catalog dimensions 49 x 38 cm.
- Edition details
- The saved release record describes: Edition of 33.
- Signature and marks
- The saved release record describes: signed; numbered. Verify each feature against a documented example of this edition.
Documented History and Meaning
History note: This page treats Retna's broader career as background context, not proof that this specific edition belongs to any single exhibition or event. Release-level facts here come from a saved secondary catalog record.
Meaning / interpretation: No per-work artist statement is recorded for this edition. Any thematic reading should be treated as interpretation of the imagery, not a documented statement of the artist's intent. This interpretive note follows the cited artist or publisher context.
Release context: The saved catalog lists 2018 and attributes the edition to Print Them All. The saved description also notes: During his stay, Retna had the occasion to visit the renowned studio Taller De Grabado of Fernando Sandoval in Oaxaca where he decided to create a series of etchings including "El Mescalero".
Authentication, Presentation and Provenance
- Original presentation
- Original packaging or presentation was not documented in the release sources reviewed.
- Authentication note
- Compare the support, dimensions, edition number, and signature against a documented example of this edition. Gauntlet Gallery does not authenticate works purchased from third parties.
- Provenance note
- Edition origin is attributed in the saved record to Print Them All. That does not establish the ownership history of an individual copy: retain the original invoice, reseller or gallery paperwork, labels, correspondence, and condition photographs.
Sources and Verification
Verification status: Secondary catalog snapshot; artist-level context added
- Saved release record — Art Collectorz · secondary catalog snapshot · Accessed 2026-07-13 · Starting record for title, year, edition, dimensions, medium, and release description. Primary confirmation against the original release page remains pending.
- Retna — Wikipedia · reference encyclopedia · Accessed 2026-07-13 · General artist-level biographical and career reference.
- RETNA (Q16218751) — Wikidata · reference knowledge base · Accessed 2026-07-13 · Structured identifier used for the artist across catalog metadata.
FAQ
What is punta seca?
Punta seca is drypoint, an intaglio technique where the plate is incised directly with a needle, producing a soft, velvety line from the raised burr.
Who is El Mescalero?
El Mescalero is a Retna 'Brimstone' character; this print was described as the first etching introducing that figure.
How large is the edition?
An edition of 33, each signed and numbered, at 49 x 38 cm.
Related Retna Works
