John Olsen’s kinship with frogs began in 1971 when he held one in the rainforest. Cool and alive in his palm, he was profoundly struck by the frog’s oddities - bulbous eyes, wet skin and the ability to spring away like coiled wire. Since then, Olsen has repeatedly paid tribute to the frog, imagining him in all his captivating forms.

In ‘Frog at Kakadu’, dated 1988, Olsen pictures the frog from above. The work is recognisably Olsen's — merging perspectives, finding humour and unexpected grace in its subject and live in form. It is an original coloured lithograph, a tribute to the polyphony of nature.

Winner of the Wynne, Sulman and Archibald Prizes, represented in all major institutions and a recipient of an Order of Australia, Olsen is an icon of Australian art.

This work will charm collectors of Olsen, iconic Australian art and those who enjoy nature.

John OLSEN (1928 - 2023)
'Frog at Kakadu' 1988
colour lithograph on paper
Image Size: 76 x 57 cm
Dimensions: 100 x 79 x 2 cm
Signed: Signed, dated and editioned within image
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Literature: McGregor K. Teeming with Life: His Complete Graphics 1957-2005, Macmillan Art Publishing, Melbourne, 2005, p. 109, cat. 145
Condition: Good:  The work presents in generally good condition overall. A few minor spots of foxing are visible upon close inspection. There is some evidence of mould beneath the glazing, affecting the mount board rather than the work itself. The piece would benefit from conservation cleaning and reframing to ensure its long-term preservation. We can assist with this - contact us for a quote
(c) John Olsen / Copyright Agency