Seated Woman (likely titled 'Femme au Jardin' or similar)
Limited edition print (serigraph or lithograph) on heavy paper • Itzchak Tarkay (Israeli, 1935–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Figurative / Post-Impressionism influence; often associated with the School of Paris style.
Medium & Technique
Serigraph; characterized by flat areas of vibrant color, crisp outlines, and complex layering of inks to achieve high saturation.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (circa 1990-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 16 inches (image size); Portrait format. Set within a large gold-toned frame with a linen liner.
Subject Description
A stylishly dressed woman seated in a cafe or garden setting. The composition features Tarkay's signature motifs: a brightly patterned red skirt, a blue cardigan, and a background with a bowl of fruit and lush potted plants. The mood is one of quiet contemplation and leisure, utilizing a palette of bold primaries.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the print appears bright with little to no visible fading or foxing.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800
Auction Estimate
$250 - $500
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or cruise ship auction (such as Park West Gallery), where Tarkay's editions were extensively distributed. Lower left shows an edition number; lower right bears the artist's signature.
Art Historical Significance
Tarkay is a seminal figure in commercial contemporary art, known for his unique blending of Matisse-like line work with modern color sensibilities. His work popularized the 'leisurely woman' trope in the late 20th-century art market.
Notable Features
Includes a handwritten edition number (e.g., 121/350) and a graphite signature by the artist. Features a classic high-quality 1990s-style triple-molding gold frame with a linen inset.
Condition Issues
Minor dust accumulation on the frame; potential slight paper undulation behind the matting common in older framing.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is behind UV-protective glass to prevent color fading. Keep away from direct sunlight and high-humidity areas.