White Irises on Red Background
Original painting on paper or cardstock • Attributed to 'Vicki Morris' (based on visible signature in the lower left corner).
Style & Movement
Modern Decorative Floral / Contemporary Realism with Impressionistic influences.
Medium & Technique
Acrylic or gouache on paper; employs a painterly technique with visible impasto in the flower petals and a textured, sponge-effect or palette knife application in the background.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; Portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A botanical study featuring three blooming white and pale yellow bearded irises. The vertical composition emphasizes the height of the stalks against a deep burgundy/oxblood red background that has been layered with a deckle-edge appearance over a tan/buff-colored board.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; the central painted area remains vibrant, but the support shows significant edge wear and physical damage.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely a private collection or estate acquisition; no official gallery labels are visible, though mounting tape at the bottom suggests it was previously matted or framed.
Art Historical Significance
This piece represents the popularization of decorative floral art in the late 20th century. It is likely an amateur or regional professional work designed for interior decoration rather than a museum-tier historical piece.
Notable Features
Hand-signed 'Vicki Morris' in a subtle script in the lower left; unusual layered 'torn edge' aesthetic created with paint rather than physical paper layers.
Condition Issues
Visible tearing and bending at the bottom edge; adhesive residue from clear tape; minor scuffing on the tan borders; potential light fading.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional archival matting to hide the damaged edges; framing under UV-protective glass to prevent further pigment fading; removal of non-archival clear tape by a specialist to prevent acid staining.