Sunflowers (Twelve Sunflowers in a Vase)
Mechanical print/reproduction on textured board or paper • After Vincent van Gogh (reproduction of the 1888 original in the Neue Pinakothek, Munich)
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionist (original style); Commercial Decorative Art (item type)
Medium & Technique
Color lithography or offset printing. The surface appears to have an embossed texture or 'brushstroke' varnish to mimic the impasto of an oil painting.
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century (c. 1950-1980)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; portrait orientation
Subject Description
A still life arrangement of twelve sunflowers in various stages of bloom and decay, set within a simple ceramic vase. The composition uses a vibrant palette of yellows and ochres, symbolic of the sun and gratitude.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. There is visible yellowing of the substrate and some fading of the pigment due to UV exposure.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $50
Auction Estimate
$10 - $30
Provenance History
Unknown; likely a mass-market decorative print sold through galleries or department stores. A price tag of '$25' is visible at the bottom, suggesting recent thrift or estate sale history.
Art Historical Significance
As a reproduction, this piece holds no primary art-historical value but reflects the enduring popularity and commercialization of Van Gogh's Arles period works.
Notable Features
Includes a printed facsimile of Van Gogh's signature on the vase. The blue mat and simple wood frame are characteristic of late 20th-century home decor framing.
Condition Issues
Visible surface grime, paper oxidation (browning), and potential acid damage from the non-archival cardboard matting. The 'Vincent' signature is part of the print, not hand-signed.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent further fading. Replace the acidic mat with acid-free materials if long-term display is desired.