Untitled (1986) is the largest print in the artist’s oeuvre, depicting a hydra-like figure, whose head of tentacles morphs into individual bodies. This print is a jubilant embrace of cultural intersectionality and social responsibility. In this work, often referred to simply as “Cup Man”, Haring’s quintessential dance of lines takes a rhythmic twist. His signature faceless figure undergoes a delightful transformation, evolving into a matryoshka, the iconic Russian nesting doll known for its vivid colors and meticulous patterns. Embracing the lively palette characteristic of these dolls, Haring melds his unerring urban energy with this traditional Russian motif. The figure, with its torso unfurling into individual entities, is a fascinating nod to the multi-layered nature of human identity, just as matryoshkas unveil smaller versions of themselves with each opened layer.

---

Heritage Auctions: 24 October 2023
Estimated: USD 30,000 – 50,000
USD 61,250

KEITH HARING
Untitled (Cup Man), 1989
Screenprint in colors on wove paper
Signed, editioned 48/100 and dated in pencil along lower and right edges

Uppsala Stockholm: 12 May 2023
Estimated: SEK 250,000 – 300,000
SEK 520,000 (Hammer)
SEK 650,000 / USD 62,910

KEITH HARING (USA 1958‑1990).
”Untitled – 1989” (Cup Man) (Littman p. 116‑117), 1989
Screenprint in colors
Signed, dated and numbered K. Haring ’89 AP 22/30
An artist’s proof aside of the edition of 100

Van Ham: 1 March 2023
Estimated: EUR 20,000
EUR 66,000

KEITH HARING
Untitled (Cup Man), 1989
Screenprint in colors on wove paper
Signed, numbered AP 16/30 and dated in pencil along right edge

Sotheby’s London: 26 September 2018
Estimated: GBP 8,000 – 12,000
GBP 27,500

KEITH HARING
Untitled (Littmann pp. 116-117), 1989
Screen-print in colors
Signed in pencil, dated, numbered 100/100