The Lovers (Lovers in Gold)
Mixed media wall sculpture mounted on glass • In the manner of Erté (Romain de Tirtoff) or more likely a high-end decorative studio such as Artisan House (C. Jeré) or a regional artist influenced by Art Deco revival.
Style & Movement
Art Deco Revival (Neo-Liberty) with Contemporary Decorative influences
Medium & Technique
Cast resin or polymer with metallic leafing (gold/bronze tones), textured surface casting (impasto-mimicking), and sand-textured patination on a frosted glass panel support.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, circa 1980–1995
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 36 x 36 inches; Square format mounted on a beveled glass plate.
Subject Description
A stylized, abstract depiction of two figures in an embrace. Features include geometric facial profiles, patterned hair represented by wavy undulations ('waves'), and textured garments. The composition uses overlapping curvilinear forms to symbolize intimacy and unity, reminiscent of Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' but rendered in a late 20th-century decorative aesthetic.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the primary sculptural elements appear stable, though there is visible minor oxidation on the metallic leaf and dust accumulation in the crevices of the textured hair.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500
Auction Estimate
$400 - $700
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a high-end interior design showroom or a decorative art gallery in the 1980s or 90s. No visible signatures are present in the photograph, but mounting brackets match luxury commercial hardware from that era.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the popularization of Art Deco aesthetics through 1980s 'Luxe' interior design. While likely a commercial production rather than a unique museum-tier piece, it exemplifies the period's interest in vertical integration of art and architecture.
Notable Features
The contrast between the smooth 'skin' surfaces and the heavily modeled 'hair' and 'clothing' textures; the use of glass as a floating substrate which allows the wall color to integrate into the piece.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches on the glass support; potential delamination of the gold leaf at the edges of the profiles; slight dulling of the metallic pigment due to environmental exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Non-abrasive cleaning of the glass mounting; gentle dusting of the inner textures using a soft natural-hair brush. Avoid chemical solvents on the metallic surfaces to prevent stripping the leafing.