Two Women Reading (likely 'In the Garden' or 'Summer Afternoon' series variant)
Limited edition print (Serigraph/Silkscreen) on heavy paper • Itzchak Tarkay (1935–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Figurative / Post-Impressionist revival; strongly influenced by Fauvism and the work of Matisse and Toulouse-Lautrec.
Medium & Technique
Serigraphy (silkscreen) with multiple color ink layers; characterized by flat color planes, sharp registration, and high-pigment ink density to simulate painting textures.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (c. 1990-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated image size 24 x 30 inches; landscape format; presented in a large custom-matted gold gilt frame.
Subject Description
The composition depicts two stylishly dressed women in a social setting, a signature motif of Tarkay. They are seated in chairs with high decorative backs; one woman wears a wide-brimmed black hat and a red patterned dress, while the other wears a red cloche hat. The scene conveys a sense of leisured elegance and 'joie de vivre' through vibrant, non-naturalistic color and bold outlines.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; colors remain vibrant, signifying limited UV exposure.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$400 - $700 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a commercial gallery or a high-end cruise ship art auction (e.g., Park West Gallery), where Tarkay’s work was widely distributed.
Art Historical Significance
Tarkay was a leading figure in the modern figurative movement. His work is significant for its accessibility and its continuation of the 'Salon' tradition of the early 20th century. He was a highly commercially successful artist whose aesthetic defined much of the popular art market in the late 1990s.
Notable Features
Features the artist's distinctive cursive signature in the lower right and a likely limited edition numbering in the lower left. The use of vibrant, contrasting primary colors and the lack of deep spatial perspective are hallmarks of the artist’s mature period.
Condition Issues
Visible reflection and slight waviness of the paper suggest it may not be mounted to an acid-free backing; potential for minor 'cockling' due to humidity changes. Some minor abrasions visible on the outer frame edge.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is protected by UV-filtering glass or acrylic. Ensure the matting is 100% acid-free to prevent 'mat burn'. Keep out of direct sunlight and high-humidity environments.