Paraty Waterfront and Santa Rita Church
Fine art print on paper • Signed 'Pauker' (possibly linked to the Pauker family of Brazilian artists or a commercial regional artist using this name)
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism / Regional Realism with a focus on Brazilian colonial architecture
Medium & Technique
Likely an offset lithograph or giclee reproduction of an original oil or acrylic painting. The original shows signs of palette knife application and thick impasto in the reflections and architectural details.
Creation Period
Late 20th century to early 21st century
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8 x 10 inches (image), 16 x 20 inches (framed); Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A scenic view of Paraty, Brazil, specifically highlighting the iconic Chapel of Santa Rita built in 1722. The composition includes tall palm trees, red-tiled roofs, colonial white-washed buildings, and small fishing boats on the water with distant blue mountains beneath a cloudy sky.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; The print appears stable within the matting, though there is visible dust and minor debris on the inner surface of the glass/frame.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Private collection; likely acquired as a decorative souvenir or regional art piece in Brazil or via a commercial gallery specializing in Latin American landscapes.
Art Historical Significance
The work belongs to the tradition of 'Veduta' or view painting, focusing on the preservation of Brazilian colonial heritage. While likely a commercial reproduction, it captures the important architectural identity of Paraty, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'Pauker' signature in the lower right corner; captures the specific atmospheric light and reflections characteristic of the Costa Verde region.
Condition Issues
Dust accumulation inside the frame; possible minor fading if exposed to UV light over time; framing materials do not appear to be museum-grade acid-free.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning of the glass; replacement of the matting with acid-free archival board to prevent 'mat burn'; installation of UV-protective glass if displayed in a bright room.