Tess
Print / Serigraph on paper • Patrick Nagel
Style & Movement
Nagel Style / 1980s Modernism / Post-Pop Art Deco Revival
Medium & Technique
Serigraph (Silkscreen); characterized by flat areas of color, sharp clean lines, and high-contrast graphic composition.
Creation Period
circa 1980s (specifically 1986)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 36 inches; Landscape format; framed.
Subject Description
A stylized portrait of a woman with pale skin, dark bobbed hair, and dark lips. She is wearing large gold stick earrings and a black jacket. The background features geometric shapes in purple and gray. The imagery emphasizes fashion, mystery, and a 'femme fatale' aesthetic common in 80s commercial art.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the print appears bright with no visible foxing, though minor rippling of the paper or surface scuffs may be present under the glass.
Estimated Market Value
$1,000 - $3,500 (dependent on whether it is a signed limited edition or a modern commemorative reprint)
Auction Estimate
$800 - $2,500
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or specialized print shop in the late 1980s; consistent with mass-marketed high-quality graphic editions of the period.
Art Historical Significance
Patrick Nagel is the quintessential artist of the 1980s aesthetic. His work defined the visual language of the decade, appearing on the cover of Duran Duran's 'Rio' album and influencing fashion, illustration, and interior design globally.
Notable Features
Signature Nagel graphic minimalism; the use of strict black linework against a muted pastel and primary palette; iconic 1980s fashion motifs.
Condition Issues
Potential UV fading if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods; slight edge wear hidden by the frame; possible adhesive residue on the reverse.
Conservation Recommendations
Glass should be replaced with Museums-grade UV-protective acrylic to prevent color fading. Ensure acid-free matting is used to avoid 'acid burn' on the paper edges.