L'Oiseau de Feu (The Firebird)
Limited Edition Print on paper • Theo Tobiasse (1927–2012)
Style & Movement
Modernist / Expressionist with Narrative / Surrealist influences; often associated with the School of Paris.
Medium & Technique
Lithograph with layered color application, featuring flat color planes combined with heavy texture, circular motifs, and gestural linework.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, circa 1970s-1980s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 22 x 30 inches (image), landscape format, housed in a contemporary silver-toned frame.
Subject Description
An abstract still life featuring a dark vase and flowering branches against a complex geometric background. The composition utilizes circular 'dots' or fruit forms in vibrant reds, blacks, and yellows, with secondary patterns of stylized flowers and starbursts. The work incorporates Tobiasse’s characteristic use of text-like elements within color blocks and a balance between rigid architecture and organic growth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the colors appear vibrant and saturated. The paper appears flat without significant waving or cockling.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,200 USD
Auction Estimate
$400 - $700 USD
Provenance History
Numbered '238/260' in the lower left and signed in pencil lower right. Likely acquired through a retail gallery or estate sale; Tobiasse was highly commercialized through major international galleries in the 70s and 80s.
Art Historical Significance
Theo Tobiasse is a significant figure in post-war French art, known for his Jewish themes and narrative richness. This work represents his decorative, semi-abstract phase where he explored the relationship between objects and memory. His work is held in numerous international collections including the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.
Notable Features
Distinguished by the specific edition numbering (238/260) and the artist’s characteristic signature 'Tobiasse' in the lower right. The inclusion of the faint text/script within the red circular form is a hallmark of his technical style.
Condition Issues
Minor light-strike or mat burn potential around edges due to framing; potential slight fading common in lithographs of this era if exposed to UV; glass reflections obscure center fine details in photo.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the use of UV-filtering glass or acrylic. Verify that the matting is acid-free (archival) to prevent future browning of the paper edges. Avoid hanging in direct sunlight.