AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a rare monochrome lithograph by the renowned Franco-Japanese artist Léonard Tsuguharu Foujita, dated 1925. The artwork depicts two young girls in profile, showcasing the artist's signature delicate line work and fusion of Japanese aesthetic sensibilities with Western modernism. The piece is numbered 8/15, indicating a very limited edition run, which significantly enhances its rarity and value for collectors of the School of Paris period. The composition is likely rendered on high-quality vellum or similar fine art paper typical of the Roaring Twenties era. Foujita's work from this period is celebrated for its 'grand fond blanc' (great white background) technique, achieved through a secret method involving crushed oyster shells and lead white. The monochromatic grey and charcoal tones visible in the provided image suggest a subtle play of light and shadow, characteristic of Foujita's mastery over lithographic ink. Condition-wise, while the image resolution is limited, an appraiser would look for evidence of foxing, toning (aging of the paper), or any marginal tears. Authenticating marks would include Foujita's distinct signature in both Latin and Japanese script, alongside the hand-written edition number. The craftsmanship reflects the peak of early 20th-century printmaking, displaying a refined, ethereal quality that is highly sought after in the international art market.

Based on my examination of the digital documentation provided, I have appraised this 1925 lithograph 'Deux jeunes filles de profil' by Tsuguharu Foujita. The work displays the artist’s signature 'ligne claire' style, juxtaposing traditional Ukiyo-e delicate linework with the classicism of the School of Paris. Edition 8/15 is exceptionally rare; Foujita’s lithographic editions from the mid-1920s more commonly appeared in runs of 50 to 100. This low numbering significantly elevates its scarcity and desirability among global collectors. Market demand for Foujita remains robust, particularly for early works on milk-white paper that exemplify his technical mastery. Comparables for signed, low-edition Foujita lithographs from the 1920s consistently realize mid-four-figure prices at major auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s. However, several factors impact this valuation. From the image, some minor toning is visible, but the margins appear intact. A physical inspection is mandatory to confirm the presence of the watermark and to ensure the signature is hand-applied in graphite rather than printed. This appraisal assumes the piece has not been trimmed and is free of significant acid damage (foxing) or light-staining. For definitive authentication, I would require a high-resolution scan of the signature/numbering area, provenance documentation from a reputable gallery, and an in-person examination under UV light to detect any hidden restorations or paper thinning. Until these factors are physically verified, this remains a preliminary estimate.