Beethoven and Andy Warhol: Two rebellious icons

Andy Warhol portrait of Ludwig van Beethoven offers an unprecedented visual take on the great composer. The artist's 1987 silkscreen dispenses with the stern face usually seen on historical portraits and statues of the musical genius. Instead, Warhol uses pop art's vivid colors and striking visual language to turn Beethoven into a modern icon. Originally conceived as a commercial work for the Pop Art guru's New York City studio, known as The Factory, the image was produced in a limited edition of 60 and proved to be one of the most innovative artistic engagements with Ludwig van Beethoven in the 20th century. The artist created the famous "Beethoven" color silkscreen prints just a few weeks before his sudden death on February 22, 1987.