Lot 78
Erte (Romain de Tirtoff) (1892-1990) and Workshop
Lot 78 Details
Erte (Romain de Tirtoff) (1892-1990) and Workshop, French
WINGS OF VICTORY (STUDY FOR LES AILES DE LA VICTOIRE)
Gouache and watercolour on thick illustration board; signed “Erte” lower right with an indistinct “L...” to the left of the signature
Sheet 13.75" x 10" — 34.9 x 25.4 cm.
Estimate $3,000-$5,000
Literature:
“Designs by Erte: Fashion drawings and Illustrations from ‘Harper’s Bazar’”, ed. Stella Blum: Dover Publications Inc.;
“Erte at Ninety: The Complete Graphics”, ed. Marshall Lee
Note:
Erte created this gouache study for the March 1919 cover design for Harper’s Bazar magazine. The final design included detailed patterning on her cape. The present lot signed “.Erte” in upper case lettering lower right, is proceeded by an indistinct word possibly referencing part of the title: “Les Ailes” or “Le Ali”.
Erte wanted to show the power of air flight in WWI. The bird of prey changes into an airplane as it moves from victory's hand. This is the study for the most wanted of Erte prints. The image was also published as a limited edition silkscreen print in November 1978 by the Chicago Serigraphic Workshop measuring 27” x 19”; as a poster by Circle Gallery in 1983 and its image appeared on a silk scarf.