L'Après-midi (The Afternoon)
Print on paper, likely a serigraph or lithograph • Itzchak Tarkay (1935–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Figurative / Fauvism influence; often categorized within 'Neo-Impressionism' or modern commercial figurative art
Medium & Technique
Serigraphy (silk-screen printing) or lithography; features flat blocks of vibrant color, crisp edges, and layered floral motifs
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (c. 1990s-2005)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated image size 25 x 15 inches; framed size approximately 38 x 28 inches. Format: Vertical Portrait.
Subject Description
A classic Tarkay composition featuring seated women in a cafe or parlor setting. The figures are stylized with elongated features and heavy eyelids, reflecting a relaxed, bourgeois lifestyle. A large, decorative floral pattern dominates the foreground fabric, contrasting with the solid, vibrant colors of the women's clothing and the abstract background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the print appears bright with no visible foxing, fading, or water damage through the glass.
Estimated Market Value
$600 - $1,200
Auction Estimate
$300 - $700
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or a cruise ship auction (such as Park West Gallery), where Tarkay’s work was widely distributed.
Art Historical Significance
Tarkay is a seminal figure in the modern commercial art market, known for his 'cafe scene' genre. His work combines the influences of Matisse and Toulouse-Lautrec with a modern, decorative sensibility that achieved massive popularity in the late 1980s and 90s.
Notable Features
Hand-signed by the artist in the lower right margin; limited edition numbering (e.g., 12/450) visible in the lower left margin. The ornate triple-matting and black/gold leaf frame are characteristic of high-end commercial gallery presentations.
Condition Issues
Minor edge-wear on the frame; potential slight acid-burn from non-archival matting (common in older commercial framing), though not visible in photograph.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent UV fading of the vibrant pigments. If not already present, upgrade to UV-protective glass.