Jean-Michel Basquiat’s ‘Rome Pays Off’ Available for Sale through Robin Rile Fine Art. Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Rome Pays Off is a powerful and thought-provoking artwork that exemplifies his signature style, blending raw expression, historical allusion, and social critique. We are pleased to offer this exceptional screen print for sale—a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of Basquiat’s legacy.
The Significance of Rome Pays Off
Created in 1982 and later published as a screen print in 2004, Rome Pays Off is a striking composition that reflects Basquiat’s engagement with themes of power, commerce, and mortality. The artwork is dominated by a bold yellow and black color scheme, immediately drawing the viewer into its layered complexity. At the center of the piece, Basquiat’s iconic crown symbol looms over a fragmented skeletal figure, reinforcing his commentary on status, success, and the commodification of art.
Scrawled text—one of Basquiat’s hallmark techniques—introduces phrases such as Market Value, Estimated Value, and Graft, illustrating his critique of capitalism and the art market itself. The title Rome Pays Off suggests multiple interpretations, from historical references to imperialism and exploitation to the economic realities of perseverance and artistic success. Additionally, the presence of the word SALT connects to Basquiat’s exploration of African diasporic history, referencing salt’s significance as both a cultural and economic commodity. The crossed-out phrase market valuealigns with Basquiat’s statement: “I cross out words so you will see them more; the fact that they are obscured makes you want to read them.”
A Rare Collectible Artwork
This edition of Rome Pays Off is a screen print in colors on Saunders paper, measuring 43.9 × 39.8 inches. Limited to an edition of 85, this piece bears the stamps of The Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat, along with the signature of Gerard Basquiat, the artist’s estate executor. The print was published by DeSanctis Contemporary Fine Art, New York, and includes the distinctive ‘X’ stamp on the lower left verso, marking its authenticity.
Basquiat’s work continues to command significant attention in the art market, with collectors and institutions seeking out key pieces that encapsulate his revolutionary impact on contemporary art. Rome Pays Off is an outstanding example of his ability to merge personal symbolism with broader socio-political themes, making it a must-have for serious collectors.
Invest in a Legacy
For those interested in acquiring Rome Pays Off, this artwork represents more than just a visual masterpiece—it is a historical artifact of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Basquiat’s market continues to soar, with his pieces achieving record-breaking prices at auction. This is an extraordinary opportunity to own a museum-worthy work that embodies the depth, intensity, and intellectual prowess of Jean-Michel Basquiat.
To inquire about pricing and availability, please contact us today. Don’t miss your chance to add this exceptional Basquiat artwork to your collection. Jean-Michel Basquiat’s ‘Rome Pays Off’ Available for Sale through Robin Rile Fine Art contact 813-340-9629 or info@robinrile.com for details.
