Cartons is a captivating work created by renowned Spanish surrealist artist Joan Miró, produced as part of the Derrière le Miroir series in 1967. Derrière le Miroir (meaning "Behind the Mirror") was an influential art magazine that showcased the work of prominent modern artists, and Miró’s Cartons was one of its striking contributions.

The print features Miró’s signature abstract style, where vivid colours, bold lines, and symbolic shapes combine to create a surreal, dreamlike composition. In this piece, Miró uses organic forms and geometric shapes to convey his exploration of the unconscious, inviting viewers into his imaginative world. The title Cartons references the cardboard-like shapes that play a role in the composition, alluding to a connection with the simple, the elemental, and the subconscious.

Published as a lithograph in a limited edition, Cartons showcases Miró’s innovative approach to printmaking. Lithography allowed him to experiment with texture and layers, while maintaining the spontaneity and playfulness that defined much of his work.

The piece was printed on high-quality paper and, as a limited edition, it has become a highly valued collectible. The Derrière le Miroir series, particularly works like Cartons, is recognized for its contribution to the integration of avant-garde art and print media.

Today, Cartons stands as a prime example of Miró’s enduring influence on contemporary art, blending abstraction, surrealism, and experimentation to push the boundaries of visual expression.