Liege Bastogne Liege – Original Screenprint

Artist: Eliza Southwood
Price: £595
Publication date: Not stated but c.2015
Format: Original Screenprint
Condition: Fine condition, unframed
Size: 84cm x 113cm
Edition: 30 copies, signed by the artist

One of the ‘Spring Classics’. Originally commissioned by Rapha for a non-selling exhibition in Manchester. Signed and numbered in pencil by the artist. In very fine condition. Scarce.

Liege Bastogne Liege: A Short Description

Liège-Bastogne-Liège, often referred to as “La Doyenne” (The Old Lady), is one of the oldest and most prestigious one-day professional cycling races. First held in 1892, it is part of the UCI World Tour and one of the five “Monument” races of cycling, making it a key event in the spring cycling calendar.

Key Features of the Race:

• Date and Timing: The race is traditionally held in late April, marking the climax of the Ardennes Classics, following the Amstel Gold Race and La Flèche Wallonne.
• Route: The race starts in Liège, Belgium, heads south to Bastogne, and then returns north to finish in Liège. The total distance is usually around 250 kilometres.
• Terrain: Unlike the cobbled classics of Flanders, Liège-Bastogne-Liège is known for its hilly terrain and sharp climbs in the Ardennes region of Belgium. The course is relentless, with multiple challenging climbs that often see attacks from climbers and puncheurs (riders with a strong uphill finish).

Famous Climbs:

Liège-Bastogne-Liège is renowned for its steep and short Ardennes climbs, which often define the race. Some of the most iconic are:

1. Côte de La Redoute: A key climb, about 2 km long with an average gradient of 8-9%. It often plays a pivotal role, located around 40 km from the finish.
2. Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons: Another decisive climb, approximately 1.3 km with steep gradients nearing 10%. Attacks frequently occur here in the closing stages.
3. Côte de Saint-Nicolas: Located 5.5 km from the finish, this is a final opportunity for climbers to break away.
4. Côte des Forges and Côte de Stockeu: Two more notable climbs that add to the race’s challenge, testing the riders’ endurance and tactical positioning.

Race Dynamics:

• Length and Climbing: Liège-Bastogne-Liège is one of the toughest Classics, both in terms of length (around 250 km) and cumulative elevation. It often sees breakaways on the climbs, but it can also come down to a select group sprint among the strongest riders.
• Tactical Importance: The race’s gruelling climbs in the final 50 kilometres often separate the true contenders from the pack. The course is a mix of long-range attacks, bursts on the hills, and tactical racing in the final kilometres.

Famous Winners:

Many of cycling’s greatest champions have won Liège-Bastogne-Liège, cementing their place in history. Some notable winners include:

• Eddy Merckx: A five-time winner of the race (record holder), dominating during the 1960s and 1970s.
• Alejandro Valverde: A four-time winner (2006, 2008, 2015, 2017), known for his powerful finishing kick on the climbs.
• Bernard Hinault, Michele Bartoli, Philippe Gilbert, and Tadej Pogačar have also claimed victories, with Gilbert winning in 2011 and Pogačar in 2021 and 2023.

Unique Aspects:

• Endurance Test: The race’s combination of length and steep climbs makes it a true test of endurance, favouring strong climbers and riders who can handle tough conditions.
• Unpredictable Weather: Held in spring, Liège-Bastogne-Liège often features unpredictable weather, including rain and cold, adding another layer of difficulty.
• Toughest of the Ardennes Classics: Compared to the Amstel Gold Race and La Flèche Wallonne, Liège-Bastogne-Liège is considered the toughest due to its length and steeper, longer climbs.

Recent Developments:

In recent years, the race has been contested by an elite group of climbers and all-rounders. The 2023 edition saw Slovenian Tadej Pogačar claim his second victory, further establishing himself as one of the best cyclists of his generation.

Liège-Bastogne-Liège remains one of the ultimate tests of strength and endurance in professional cycling and is often regarded as a race that showcases who the strongest rider truly is, particularly among climbers and punchy classics riders.

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE AT HORNSEYS

At Hornseys, we are dedicated to offering items that uphold the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of artwork is carefully curated to ensure that each item we offer is authentic, collated, and complete.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Authenticity and Provenance: Each print is researched and verified for authenticity, guaranteeing that you receive a genuine signature from the artist.
Expert Curation: We wholly own all our artworks. We trust our taste and have invested heavily in it. We have confidence in all artwork that we offer for sale.
Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If, however, you wish to make a return, artworks may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for whatever reason. We request that we are notified in advance if you wish to do so. They must be returned to us in the same condition as they were sent for a full refund.

OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND SERVICE

Understanding the value and rarity of these items, we ensure that every aspect of your purchase meets the highest standards of quality and service. This includes:

Free Expedited, Tracked, and Insured Delivery within the UK: Ensuring that your artwork arrives safely and promptly.
Fully-Insured Worldwide Delivery: Offering peace of mind for international collectors with reliable and secure shipping options.

EXPLORE OUR COLLECTION
Visit Hornseys today to explore our fine collection of original prints and other artworks. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a special gift, our selection offers something truly unique. Located since 1976 in Ripon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, we are recognized as a destination gallery for tastefully curated artwork, design, and fine books.