Take Time to Live Life
Mass-produced decorative print on paper, likely an offset lithograph or digital reproduction • Ed Wargo
Style & Movement
Contemporary Inspirational/Commercial Decorative Art; American Folk-Realistic illustration
Medium & Technique
Ink on paper; composition features digital or mechanical reproduction of a mixed-media painting with illustrative script and photorealistic-style shading
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (circa 1990-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches including frame; portrait format
Subject Description
A vanitas-adjacent still life featuring a wooden hourglass with golden sand, resting on a rustic chest of drawers. To the left is calligraphy reading 'Take Time to Live Life' against a dark, weathered wood background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair; visible wear to the frame and matting
Estimated Market Value
$5 - $15 USD
Auction Estimate
$1 - $5 USD (No reserve)
Provenance History
Thrift store find (labeled 'CommunityAid'); originally sold through retail home decor outlets
Art Historical Significance
Low; representative of late 20th-century commercial home decor trends focused on 'Inspirational' and 'Country Chic' aesthetics for residential interiors
Notable Features
Features the printed signature of commercial artist Ed Wargo and a thrift store inventory tag priced at $6.99
Condition Issues
Glass shows surface grime and light reflections; frame has significant chipping and paint loss along the bottom edge; matting shows slight discoloration or potential acidity issues
Conservation Recommendations
No formal conservation recommended due to low market value; frame could be touched up with a mahogany-finish wood marker for aesthetic purposes