Ecstasy
Framed print on paper • Maxfield Parrish
Style & Movement
Golden Age of Illustration / American Art Nouveau
Medium & Technique
Mechanical lithograph or offset lithograph based on a original painting; characterizes the use of flat, saturated color areas and fine linework typical of mid-century commercial printing
Creation Period
Original painting 1929; this print appears to be a vintage production from circa 1930s-1950s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches (print size), vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A profile view of a young woman (modeled by Parrish's daughter Jean) standing on a rocky precipice, leaning back with her arms raised to her head in a moment of pure joy or 'ecstasy'. The background features Parrish's signature 'Parrish Blue' sky, monumental clouds, and jagged, luminous mountain peaks.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows signs of age-related fading and possible light damage
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $300
Auction Estimate
$75 - $200
Provenance History
Likely mass-produced by House of Art, N.Y., and sold as a decorative home print; lacks visible signatures or limited edition marks in the photo
Art Historical Significance
This was Parrish's most popular work, selling thousands of copies upon its release. It embodies the escapist idealism and technical brilliance of the American illustration period during the transition to Art Deco.
Notable Features
Signature use of high-contrast lighting on the rocks and the iconic depiction of the 'Parrish Blue' sky, which has become a color shorthand in American art history
Condition Issues
Visible fading of the 'blue' pigments (common in Parrish prints), slight yellowing of the paper stock, and some glare suggests it is under non-UV protected glass
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend replacing the glass with UV-filtering acrylic or glass; check for acid-free matting to prevent 'burn' to the paper edge