George Baldessin is still regarded as one of Australia’s preeminent artists. During his short but influential lifetime, he was considered on par with Brett Whiteley, with both artists eschewing the dominant mode of abstraction in favour of lyrical, figurative imagery.

The N. M. Remnant is a rare and compelling example of Baldessin’s mid-1970s oeuvre, showcasing his richly expressive intaglio etching technique and the textured handling of plate surfaces. His deft combination of etching and aquatint underscores the technical innovation of this period. The work’s dramatic scale and ambiguous title invite layered interpretation, elevating its symbolic resonance and impact.

Baldessin remains one of Australia’s most influential post-war printmakers. The N. M. Remnant represents a mature expression of his symbolic vision and technical mastery, making it a standout acquisition for collectors of Australian modernist printmaking and works on paper.

George BALDESSIN (1939 - 1978)
'The N. M. Remnant' 1973
etching and aquatint on paper
Edition of 25
Image Size: 30 x 55 cm
Dimensions: 84 x 55 x 4 cm
Signed: Editioned, titled, signed and dated in margin: Artist proof for Alan 'N M Remnant' George Baldessin 73 
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Exhibited: Opening Exhibition, Crossley Gallery, Melbourne, November 1973 (another example) George Baldessin: Complete Etchings, Mornington Peninsula Art Centre, Victoria, 3 October - 17 November 1974, cat. 202 (another example) George Baldessin: Sculpture and Etchings, National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, 8 August - 18 September 1983, cat. 52 (another example). Literature: Lindsay, R., and Holloway, M., George Baldessin: Sculpture and Etchings, National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, 1983, cat. 52, cover (illus.,another example), pp. 72, 73 (illus., another example) Edquist, H., George Baldessin: Paradox & Persuasion, Australian Galleries Publishing, Melbourne, 2009, pp. 140 (illus., another example), 141, 249.
Related Works: Another example of this etching is held in the collection of Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane accession no 1990.016 and the National Gallery of Australia accession no 83.1734.
This original graphic is in good condition for its age. The sheet presents well overall, with no significant structural issues, tears, or losses. The image retains strong integrity. The paper, however, may benefit from light conservation treatment to address its pH balance, ensuring long-term stability and preservation.
Condition: Good: Describes the average used work of art, where the image is in good condition. The margin may need to be framed out due to markings, corner wear, dog ear, small tears or if framed, the frame may have minor damage.

(c) George Baldessin / Copyright Agency