Symphony in Black
Limited edition print (Serigraph/Silkscreen) on paper • Romain de Tirtoff, known as Erté
Style & Movement
Art Deco
Medium & Technique
Serigraph with metallic ink embellishments and possible foil stamping; techniques include flat color planes and precise line work characteristic of high-end screen printing
Creation Period
Original design c. 1910s-1920s; this screenprint edition likely produced in the 1970s or 1980s during the artist's late-career revival
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 30 x 22 inches (image size); vertical portrait orientation
Subject Description
An elegant female figure in profile, dressed in a voluminous black evening cloak with intricate gold/bronze curvilinear patterns and a high fur-lined collar. The figure exemplifies the 'La Mode' aesthetic with stylized elongated proportions, a dramatic headpiece, and sophisticated masquerade-style eye makeup. It is one of the artist's most iconic fashion illustrations symbolizing 1920s glamour.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paper appears bright and the ink saturation is high. Minor rippling of the paper suggests it may not be mounted to acid-free board.
Estimated Market Value
$2,500 - $4,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$2,000 - $3,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or art publisher during the late 20th-century Art Deco revival. Contains a visible edition number (lower left) and the artist's stylized signature (lower right).
Art Historical Significance
Erté is the father of Art Deco; this specific image, 'Symphony in Black,' is perhaps his most famous composition. It defines the visual language of the Jazz Age and remains a cornerstone of 20th-century fashion illustration history.
Notable Features
Features the artist's iconic stamped signature in silver/white ink and a hand-written edition number (appears to be out of 300). The use of metallic gold inks in the cloak's pattern provides a shimmering, tactile quality common in Erté's premium serigraphs.
Condition Issues
Slight undulation/cockling of the paper consistent with humidity changes; potential light yellowing at the extreme edges near the matting which may indicate non-archival materials in the vintage frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-frame using Museum Glass to prevent UV fading of the black pigments. Use acid-free, 8-ply alpha-cellulose matting and ensure it is hinged with Japanese paper rather than dry-mounted.