ANDY WARHOL (USA 1928 - 1987), ABSOLUT VODKA (1985) offset lithograph in colours on wove paper signed in pencil, from the unnumbered edition of 100 printed by Rupert Jasen Smith, New York, published by Absolut Vodka, 114.5cm x 94.1cm, sheet (45.08 x 37.01 inches) Float mounted full sheet, framed and under glass Note: In 1985 Warhol became the first artist commissioned to create a portrait of the Absolut Vodka bottle in what would become one of the most successful advertising campaigns of the twentieth century. Following the triumph of the 'Absolut Warhol' ads, the president of the company that owned Absolut, Michael Roux, encouraged Warhol to suggest other artists which could be used in the campaign. Over the years more than three hundred and fifty artists have been commissioned, including Keith Haring, Ed Ruscha, Damien Hirst, Spike Jonze, Swedish House Mafia and Lady Gaga. In 1988, alongside the famous names, Roux also began to select less well-known artists, viewing the commission as an opportunity to launch their career. Interestingly, although Warhol never usually drank alcohol, he did use Absolut as a perfume. One of only 100 Warhol posters that Absolut Vodka's U.S. distributor Carillon originally printed and that Andy Warhol pencil-signed for senior management and for its most important clients.