Three Ostriches (Head in the Sand)
Print on paper, likely a lithograph or high-quality offset lithograph. • Stewart Moskowitz.
Style & Movement
Pop Art / Illustration / Contemporary Whimsical Realism. Reflects late 70s commercial illustration style similar to early airbrush techniques.
Medium & Technique
Lithograph or print medium characterized by smooth color gradients, soft airbrush-like transitions, and clean illustrative outlines. The palette consists of muted blues and purples.
Creation Period
1979 (marked as '© S. MOSKOWITZ 1979' in the lower-left corner).
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 24 inches (framed) / Landscape format.
Subject Description
A whimsical depiction of three stylized ostriches with blue-tinged feathers. Two ostriches stand upright with comical facial expressions, while the third on the right has its head buried in a hole in the ground. The composition is set against a plain white background, emphasizing the character design.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The print appears well-preserved within its frame, though the matting shows slight discoloration consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD.
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD.
Provenance History
Likely mass-produced for commercial retail in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Possible former ownership by a private individual for home decor. No specific gallery labels are visible on the front.
Art Historical Significance
Stewart Moskowitz is a known American pop artist famed for his whimsical animal characters (including the 'Woodsy Owl' posters). His work captures the commercial aesthetic of the 1970s and 80s, bridging the gap between fine art and children's illustration.
Notable Features
Includes the visible copyright mark '© S. MOSKOWITZ 1979' which confirms the artist and date. The frame is a period-accurate thin chrome/metal representative of late 1970s framing trends.
Condition Issues
Possible light fading due to UV exposure; slight acidity in the original matting may lead to yellowing over time; some dust/grime on the glass surface.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend replacing the current mat with acid-free archival matting and upgrading the glass to UV-protective glazing to prevent further color fading.