“I want much more than thank you... I want forgiveness... I ask for mercy. Who is at fault? Who is the culprit? Is it you, or is it me? I would rather make it my trouble... then I could take care of it... I could become active instead of passive.”
—Louise Bourgeois
Bourgeois showed her installation "Precious Liquids" at Documenta IX in 1992. To help finance Documenta IX, the curators commissioned some 60 artists (59 actually contributed) to make a benefit print or multiple, which would be editioned and sold in portfolios during the exhibition through the corporation that organizes the event, Documenta GmbH. Both well-known and lesser-known artists were invited to participate. Ten portfolios were created and issued as Editions A-J. With one exception, each included works by six artists.
For her print, Bourgeois used the phrase "merci. mercy.", which also appeared on a white garment, concealed by a long coat, in "Precious Liquids." The print is included in the portfolio designated Edition I, together with works by Marlene Dumas, Peter Kogler, James Lutes, Thanassis Totsikas, and an artist who goes by the name "readymades belong to everyone."
Bourgeois created this plate by hammering a nail through thin roofing copper.
- Louise Bourgeois: The Complete Prints & Books
