Jeremy Eden - Original Artwork 'Untitled' (Study for Archibald Portrait)

Untitled (Study for Archibald Portrait) | Jeremy Eden
Graphite and Charcoal on Paper | Unframed
59cm x 42cm

Donated by Samuel Johnson - From his personal collection

A rare and intimate glimpse into the creative process of one of Australia’s leading contemporary portraitists, this original study by Jeremy Eden was created in preparation for his Archibald Prize work. While this composition was ultimately not selected for the final painting, it stands as a powerful work in its own right—capturing the raw immediacy, structure and emotional tone that underpin Eden’s celebrated practice.

Rendered with remarkable sensitivity and control, the drawing reveals Eden’s deep understanding of form, light and expression. The subject—Samuel Johnson—appears contemplative and grounded, with the tonal depth and careful modelling of the figure foreshadowing the realism Eden is renowned for.

Eden is a three-time Archibald Prize finalist and the 2022 People’s Choice Award winner, widely recognised for his hyperreal portraits of prominent Australians. Works connected to the Archibald process—particularly preparatory studies—are highly sought after for their rarity and insight into an artist’s methodology.

This piece carries exceptional provenance, having been gifted directly to Samuel Johnson by the artist and now donated from his personal collection in support of Love Your Sister. It also reflects Eden’s personal connection to the cause, following the loss of his mother to cancer in 2008.

A unique collector’s piece—offering both artistic significance and a deeply human story.
Includes delivery anywhere in Australia

jeremyedenart.com

If you like this work, separate listings for other artworks by Jeremy Eden, ‘Orchid Still Life’ & ‘Boy Conquers Universe’, are also available in this auction.