Original Study for 'Tête-à-Tête' by Ernie Barnes

This is an original acrylic wash painting on paper by renowned American artist Ernie Barnes (1938–2009), measuring 26x34 inches. The artwork depicts three women engaged in an intimate social conversation, seated in high-back teal wing chairs. Notable for its Neo-Mannerist style, the piece features Barnes's signature elongated limbs and closed eyes, conveying a sense of rhythmic movement and interiority. Unlike the widely known finished versions of 'Tête-à-Tête', this specific composition includes unique variations: all three subjects are depicted wearing hats, the central figure is missing a teacup, and there are distinct differences in the hand gestures and leg positioning. The application of the acrylic wash is delicate, utilizing a palette of soft pastels, muted greens, and earthy browns, which demonstrates the artist's mastery over fluidity and form. The work appears to be in excellent condition, housed within a professional frame with a neutral mat that emphasizes the work's internal dimensions. The signature is visible in the lower right quadrant. As an 'original one-of-one' that has never been in circulation and bears a Certificate of Authenticity from the artist's estate, this piece holds significant provenance and represents an important developmental stage in the artist's process, highlighting his meticulous approach to figurative composition and character study.