Three Ladies at High Tea
Original painting on paper • Itzchak Tarkay (Israeli, 1935–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Figurative / Fauvism influence
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and ink on heavy-gauge paper; employs wet-on-dry and wet-on-wet techniques with loose gestural line-drawing
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (Modern era)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches; Vertical Portrait format
Subject Description
Composition features three stylized women in an interior cafe or salon setting. Two figures sit at a bistro table with a vase of flowers, while a third stands behind. The scene uses bold, colorful washes and delicate linework to evoke the 'Belle Époque' society lifestyle, emphasizing feminine elegance and leisure.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paper appears flat with vibrant pigment retention, though framed under glass which hides edge details
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $5,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$2,000 - $4,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or cruise line auction (such as Park West Gallery), common for Tarkay’s distribution; no visible back labels in the photo
Art Historical Significance
Tarkay is a pivotal figure in modern figurative art, known for his unique blend of Matisse-inspired Fauvism and Parisian cafe culture. His work is globally recognized for its focus on the 'hidden world' of women and has reached a very high level of commercial popularity.
Notable Features
Distinctive Tarkay signature in the lower right corner; characteristic use of decorative patterns (diamond shapes) and high-contrast color blocks.
Condition Issues
Minor light reflection on glass suggests a non-museum grade glazing; potential for slight paper undulation (cockling) typical of watercolor supports; some edge yellowing possible behind mat.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend archival mounting with acid-free matting and UV-protective Museum Glass to prevent fading of sensitive watercolor pigments.