Lullaby (or similar figurative composition)
Print - Limited Edition Lithograph or Serigraph on Paper • Theo Tobiasse (French, 1927–2012)
Style & Movement
Modernist / Expressionist with Surrealist and Jewish Folk influences; School of Paris (post-war).
Medium & Technique
Color lithography or serigraphy with potential embossing/blind stamping; utilizes flat color planes and soft gradations.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, circa 1980-1995
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 70 x 50 cm; Portrait orientation within a rectangular frame.
Subject Description
A group of stylized, dream-like figures in an interior or architectural setting. The central narrative suggests themes of care, motherhood, or music, featuring floating limbs and expressive, oversized heads characteristic of Tobiasse's personal iconography.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The colors appear vibrant though there is some minor evidence of paper undulation and potential light-staining from acidic matting.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$400 - $700 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or specialized print publisher; bears a pencil signature in the lower right and an edition number (e.g., HC or numbered) in the lower left.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of Tobiasse's lyrical, narrative style which blends memories of his Jewish heritage with the aesthetic traditions of Chagall and the School of Paris.
Notable Features
Distinctive pencil signature 'Tobiasse' in the lower right; utilizes a mix of dense textures and ethereal, transparent color layers.
Condition Issues
Visible reflections in the glass suggest it is not museum-grade; potential for light-induced fading over long periods; minor rippling of the paper support.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend remounting with acid-free, archival materials and replacing glass with UV-protective acrylic to prevent future fading.