Nature Morte aux Fleurs (Still Life with Flowers)
Limited edition print (Lithograph or Serigraph) on heavy wove paper • Theo Tobiasse (1927-2012), Style of/In the manner of
Style & Movement
School of Paris, Mid-Century Modernism, Lyrical Abstraction
Medium & Technique
Color lithography or carborundum etching/aquatint with possible embossing, utilizing flattened color planes, textured overlays, and stylized outlines
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970s-1980s)
Dimensions & Format
Large format landscape orientation, approximately 24 x 30 inches framed
Subject Description
An abstract still life composition featuring a central vessel with flowers, organic fruit-like shapes, and geometric patterns. To the right, two anthropomorphic, bottle-like figures stand against a textured ochre background. The work uses a vibrant palette of red, black, and gold with decorative floral motifs in the lower register.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the print appears bright with strong ink saturation, preserved under glass
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$250 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or art auction. A limited edition numbering (potentially "65/...") is visible in the lower right blue field
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the post-WWII decorative modernist movement in Europe, which synthesized cubist geometry with fauvist color and joyful, domestic subject matter
Notable Features
Distinctive use of blind-stamping/embossing (seen in the white floral circular patterns on the right) and a heavy textured ground that mimics the 'carborundum' technique popularized by artists like Max Papart and Theo Tobiasse
Condition Issues
Minor potential for light-fading or paper acid-toning beneath the matting; some slight glare-related reflections visible from the framing glass
Conservation Recommendations
Display away from direct UV sunlight; ensure the use of acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing if reframed