Norio Azuma: Rare 1969 Associated American Artists Sales Record Reveals Rising Historical Value

In the world of mid-century American art, few archival documents are as important for establishing market credibility as original sales statements from the legendary Associated American Artists (AAA). A recently surfaced 1969 AAA statement addressed directly to Norio Azuma provides extraordinary insight into the artist’s early commercial success, confirming his place among the respected printmakers and modernists represented by the iconic Fifth Avenue gallery. This historic document, dated April 1969, records artwork sales made during March 1969 and now plays a vital role in understanding—and elevating—the value of Azuma’s work in today’s art market.

This original statement lists multiple editions and prints sold through AAA, including titles such as Flowers Gone, Remembrance, Peaceful Image, Breath of Spring, In May It, and the especially notable Image #7, which sold for $625 in 1969—a significant amount equivalent to over $5,000 today. In total, Azuma received $2,791.50 for art sold in a single month. This level of commercial activity not only demonstrates steady market demand but also positions Azuma among the actively collected artists of the era, a factor that modern collectors and appraisers look for when determining long-term value.

The most important aspect of this document is its provenance power. AAA was known for selling works by major artists including Grant Wood, Thomas Hart Benton, Dalí, Calder, and Chagall. Norio Azuma’s inclusion in the same distribution network elevates his historical significance and expands his appeal to collectors who specialize in 20th-century American and international printmaking. The document also verifies Azuma’s New York City presence in 1969, listing his address at 276 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10025, strengthening the narrative of his artistic development during a culturally vibrant era.

For SEO purposes, this record strengthens high-value search terms such as “Norio Azuma provenance,” “Norio Azuma Associated American Artists,” “Norio Azuma 1960s printmaker,” and “Norio Azuma artwork value.” These keywords help collectors, scholars, and buyers discover reliable documentation that supports authentication, exhibition history, and market valuation. Anyone owning a piece with a matching title—such as Peaceful Image or Flowers Gone—can now connect their artwork to a verifiable sales record from AAA, significantly enhancing its appraisal potential.

As the art world increasingly prioritizes documentation, Norio Azuma’s 1969 AAA sales statement stands as a cornerstone of his legacy. It represents undeniable proof of his participation in the mid-century American printmaking movement and confirms the market presence that continues to grow today. This rare archival evidence not only strengthens the narrative behind his body of work but also positions Azuma as a rising figure among collectors seeking undervalued artists with strong historical foundations.