Floral Composition with Butterflies
Limited edition print (collagraph or embossed lithograph) on deckle-edged heavy paper • Inscribed signature appears to be 'M. Higgins' or similar; professional printmaker within the contemporary decorative arts school.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Decorative / New Nature Aesthetic; characterized by textured surfaces and botanical motifs common in late 1980s and early 1990s printmaking.
Medium & Technique
Multi-media printmaking including embossing (blind stamping), color-roll ink application, and fine-line etching or lithographic drawing. Features significant texture from a built-up plate.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (inscribed '90', likely 1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches; vertical portrait orientation with a wide white margin and deckled edge.
Subject Description
A vertical composition of pink and salmon-colored poppy blossoms and delicate dried sprigs arranged around a central light-filled void. Two ochre-toned butterflies fly in the lower left. The background features deep teal and cream textural patterns resembling stylized foliage or fossilized imprints.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good condition. The paper shows natural deckling and the embossing remains crisp. Visible orange price sticker on the glass/upper right corner suggests recent secondary market handling.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $300 USD (in a gallery setting)
Auction Estimate
$50 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Likely purchased from a commercial gallery or art fair in the 1990s; currently found in a retail or thrift environment based on the price sticker.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the late 20th-century revival in complex printmaking techniques that prioritized tactile, three-dimensional surfaces. It reflects the era's interest in 'Organic Abstraction' and high-quality residential decorative art.
Notable Features
Heavy blind-embossed floral border surrounding the central image; work is numbered '7 / 50' and dated '90' in graphite; the ink application shows a sophisticated 'rainbow roll' gradient in the background colors.
Condition Issues
Minor yellowing of the paper edges likely due to non-acid-free matting; potential light fading of the organic red pigments; external price sticker residue on the frame/glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend removal from current frame to inspect for acid-free mounting. Re-frame using UV-protective glazing and acid-free cotton rag matting to prevent further oxidation of the paper.