Café de Paris
Limited Edition Print on Paper • LeRoy Neiman (American, 1921–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Impressionism / Expressionism (Sports and Social Realism)
Medium & Technique
Serigraph (Silkscreen) using vibrant, multi-layered ink applications to mimic rapid brushwork.
Creation Period
Circa 1970 - 1975
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 36 inches (image size); Landscape format.
Subject Description
A bustling, high-energy scene at the legendary Café de Paris in Saint-Tropez or Paris. The composition features a crowd of fashionable patrons socializing at sidewalk tables under a vibrant pink and floral awning. Iconic signage for 'Cafe de Paris' and 'Cinzano' anchor the setting. The narrative emphasizes the post-war international jet-set lifestyle and the joy of leisure.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the colors remain saturated though there may be minor light-struck fading consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD
Provenance History
Bearing the artist's printed signature in plate and a pencil signature in the lower right margin; likely acquired through a commercial gallery or art distributor during the artist's peak market years in the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Neiman is a central figure in 20th-century American art, known for democratizing art through high-quality prints and covering global social events. This piece reflects his fascination with the 'good life' and his ability to translate motion and social energy into static imagery.
Notable Features
Features Neiman's signature use of 'aggressive' color, characterized by neon pinks and deep cerulean accents; includes the distinct pencil signature in the margin which increases value over plate-signed-only versions.
Condition Issues
Possible minor paper undulation; potential acidity from original mounting materials; slight yellowing of the perimeter matting.
Conservation Recommendations
Should be reframed with acid-free archival matting and UV-protective museum glass to prevent further ink degradation and paper browning.