Two Bathers (suggested descriptive title)
Original drawing on paper • Signature appearing as "Abentt" or similar; stylistic similarity to the work of Fernando Botero but likely by a dedicated contemporary follower or regional artist working in the Boterismo style
Style & Movement
Boterismo / Neo-Figurative / Contemporary Grotesque
Medium & Technique
Graphite and charcoal on paper featuring soft tonal blending, hatching, and contour drawing
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (circa 1980-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; Portrait orientation within a boxed frame with a textile mat
Subject Description
The composition depicts two voluminous female figures in intimate proximity. The primary figure in the foreground is rendered in a camisole or undergarment, featuring the characteristic small facial features and inflated proportions associated with Boterismo iconography. A second figure is partially visible behind the first, with an arm draped over the shoulder in a gesture of companionship or support.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good condition; the artwork is housed behind glass which has protected the surface, though there are high reflections on the glazing
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Private collection; presence of a professional gallery-style frame and linen mat suggests acquisition from a boutique gallery or art fair market
Art Historical Significance
The piece represents the global spread of the 'fat' aesthetic popularized by Fernando Botero. It explores the subversion of traditional beauty standards through the exaggeration of form and volume, a hallmark of late 20th-century figurative art.
Notable Features
Bold, stylized signature at the center-left; distinctive use of high-contrast graphite to create three-dimensional volume; professional-grade dark wood frame with a grey linen-textured matting.
Condition Issues
Visible glare from non-archival glass. Potential minor yellowing of the paper at the edges and slight compression of the paper fibers due to framing pressure.
Conservation Recommendations
Upgrade to UV-protective museum glass to prevent fading and reduce glare. Ensure the artwork is mounted using acid-free, reversible archival tapes.