Tête-à-tête (from the 'Le Grand Chandelier' series)
Print on paper, likely a lithograph or serigraph • Itzchak Tarkay (1935–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Figurative Art, influenced by Fauvism and Post-Impressionism (specifically Matisse and Toulouse-Lautrec)
Medium & Technique
Color lithography/serigraphy with ink wash effects and rapid-line drawing; hand-signed and numbered in graphite
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, circa 1980-1995
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 12 inches (image size), square format, presented in a decorative frame.
Subject Description
A social gathering of elegantly dressed women seated at a cafe table. The composition uses gestural lines and vibrant blocks of color to depict a lively, sophisticated atmosphere common in Tarkay's work, emphasizing feminine companionship and leisure.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the paper appears bright and the ink colors remain vivid with no visible foxing or fading.
Estimated Market Value
$600 - $1,200 USD (Reflecting AP status and framing)
Auction Estimate
$400 - $800 USD
Provenance History
Marked 'A.P. 36/45' (Artist's Proof), indicating it was part of the artist's personal allocation or a small pre-edition run, likely sold through a commercial gallery or cruise line art auction.
Art Historical Significance
Tarkay is considered a pivotal figure in modern commercial figurative art, known for his ability to synthesize 'fin de siècle' aesthetics with modern color palettes. His work popularized the 'café scene' motif in the late 20th-century art market.
Notable Features
Includes a clear 'Tarkay' signature in the lower right and a distinct 'A.P.' (Artist Proof) designation and numbering in the lower left, which is often more desirable for collectors than standard numbered editions.
Condition Issues
No major issues visible; minor undulation of the paper under the matting is typical for works on paper and does not impact value significantly.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight; ensure the use of acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent yellowing or color shifts.