Ai Weiwei

Middle Finger in Black

€900

Artwork

Edition of 10060.0 (H) × 60.0 (W) cm

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Middle Finger in Black belongs to a trio of artworks by Ai Weiwei which combine innovative printing methods with pillars of freedom upheld throughout his practice.

A radial composition references the obscene gesture – a raised middle finger – which defines Ai’s seminal series, Study of Perspective. Begun in 1995, the series asserts the importance of our collective freedom to form, hold and express individual beliefs. For the artist, the power of a simple gesture like this is that anyone can make it. The edition is printed on a silkscreen press and finished with an intricate layer of white gold leaf, applied by hand to dazzling effect.

In a new juncture for Study of Perspective, we’ve also collaborated with Ai to make his middle finger available to all – inviting any and everyone to share their own perspective on power. Add yours to the archive now.

Then, go behind the scenes at Make-Ready in London as Ai reflects on the profundities of printmaking and its lineage within his practice.

Framing

Two framing options are available. A matte black painted wooden frame with open grain, or a silver painted wooden frame with a metallic finish – both mounted on an off-white back board and fitted with UV plexiglass for protection.

Medium

2 colour silkscreen with foiling in white gold leaf, printed on 600gsm Somerset Tub Sized Radiant White paper.

Certificate of Authenticity

Arrives with a certificate of authenticity.

Finishing

Individually numbered, signed by the artist, and accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity.

Release date

May 11, 2023

Payment

Pay with bank card, crypto, Apple Pay or Google Pay. If you wish you to use an alternative payment method, get in touch.

Policies

Returns and refunds

This artwork is protected by a resale agreement, which all collectors will need to sign before placing an order. More details in our FAQs

Go deeper

06:12

Behind the scenes

artist Ai Weiwei taking a selfie in a bathroom mirror

Ai Weiwei31 collaborationsAi Weiwei is unafraid to speak truth to power. He’s one of the most famous living artists today – a testament to the breadth and vision of his practice. Effortlessly, he moves between different media, from sculpture and architecture to performance and documentary film. His work is often monumental in scale and is driven by a hunger for truth and justice. In 2008, for example, Ai spent many months collecting the names of over 5000 children who lost their lives in the Sichuan earthquake. This unflinching dedication to human rights saw him detained by the Chinese government for 81 days in 2011, accused of ‘subverting the state.’

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Reviews from Avant collectors

I think the experience has been brilliant from start to finish
Review of HOPE (251-375)
I think your service excellent. Sufficient information throughout the process, not too many emails, thank you. Wrapping 5stars. And the print is superb! Fulfills my little dreamsof owning some art and supporting arti/artists that deserve it.
Review of Dissipate
everything in the communication has been pretty clear and fluid, the tracking before delivery was detailled and fast, the packaging was enought secured and the final artwork is incredible !
Review of B BOY JUSHI
amazing piece. love the frame and unbox experience
Review of Chromie Squiggle #8107
Not only the artwork, but also the unboxing was was a highlight itself - thank you for your perfect service!
Review of Guardian
So happy to have the print.
Review of Actual Size
Excellent quality and communication! excited to continue this relationship with Avant Arte and team, and explore more art
Review of Inner Love
I’m really happy to add this piece to my collection. It’s always a pleasure working with you — thank you for making everything so smooth. Looking forward to hearing about more great works!
Review of Untitled

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