Hoof Dealer - auction

Apparently, Sotherbys put up an early version of a painting by a somewhat underrated artist featuring the iconic "character" Hoofs; bidding is expected to be fierce, so you should perhaps check out the listing before someone nabs it.

I've included a scan of the auctioned piece (see above)

The painting was, as the rumour goes, done when Hoofs needed some drug money and was doing outre nude modelling to ensure his/her "flight into the netherworlds". The artist took pity on him/her and offered prime placement into one of his doodles, making sure to disguise Hoof's identity lest his/her desperate predicament come to light. The model was paid in "tranquilizer" and oreo (double-stuffed) cookies, with nary a second thought.

Indeed, the image is quite spurious. Who is this grumpy icon? What is his purpose? His story? Why does he venerate snails? Why is he standing amidst a hellscape of smoke and careless brushstrokes?

The result is somewhat understated, and largely unfinished. Hoof's apparently signed the image when the artist wasn't looking. Sadly, the artist's masterpiece only became a stepping stone to another failed "fantasy" artist in a world of eye-popping post-pop popular pop art. 

PS: Apologies to the original artist, I know times were tough... (they still are for me)