Procol Harum 'Grand Hotel' unused '73 artwork, unique
£
205
$
272
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Description
You are bidding for a unique piece of rock memorabilia, an original fine-art charcoal drawing on Rives BFK Elephant double weight paper (fixed by the artist to prevent smudging).
This coolly enigmatic illustration was executed in 1973 by the renowned American designer Spencer Zahn, for the lyric-book that accompanied Procol Harum’s lavish Grand Hotel album. The stylish, minimalist picture, which is signed with the artist’s monogram, illustrates the words of the Keith Reid song, Drunk Again, which in the event wasn't included on the album, but surfaced as a 45 rpm B-side the following year. The picture, which shows a hand holding a glass containing an iced drink, is therefore a particularly rare item. It’s being sold here on behalf of Gary Brooker, who composed the music.
The dimensions of the piece, measured by Gary himself, are 749 x 1015 mm. The picture is in good condition, having spent the last 30-odd years in a frame under glass. It is being sold unframed and will be rolled in a strong tube for despatch.
Click on this hyperlink for three views of the piece, including large image-files that will let you examine any slight spotting due to ageing of the art paper. You will note that the picture includes some sketched pencil construction-lines, further indication of its status as an artist's original. The eBay picture here looks too greyish and doesn't do the item justice.
Proceeds from this sale will be shared between the Procol Harum website, 'Beyond the Pale', and a fund established by Gary Brooker to benefit the family of Procol Harum's late drummer, the great BJ Wilson.
This highly-unusual one-off has an unique place in rock history and is a fine, striking item in its own right. Properly mounted, it will grace the wall of anywhere that people drink (!) – and make a superb talking point.
Happy bidding!
