AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a limited edition color etching by the renowned Bolivian artist Graciela Rodo Boulanger, titled 'Mère et enfant' or 'Mother and Child'. The artwork depicts a tender scene of a stylized woman embracing a small child wrapped in a highly patterned, decorative blanket. The piece utilizes a soft palette of lavenders, dusty blues, muted golds, and pinks, characteristic of the artist's whimsical and modern style. The construction features intricate line work combined with textured aquatint areas in the background. Notable features include the signature in pencil at the bottom right and the edition number at the bottom center, likely 49/100, indicating its exclusivity. The work is housed in a professional gold-toned frame with a large cream-colored mat. Visible condition issues include slight waving of the paper within the mount, typical of age, and some minor scratching on the gold-toned frame bezel. The craftsmanship reflects typical mid-to-late 20th-century printmaking, showcasing fine detailing in the textile patterns. The style is distinctly mid-century contemporary, capturing the innocence and domestic tranquility for which Rodo Boulanger is celebrated.

Based on my visual examination of the provided image, this work appears to be an authentic color etching with aquatint by Bolivian artist Graciela Rodo Boulanger. The piece, 'Mère et enfant', displays her signature stylized figures and characteristic textile-like patterns. The pencil signature and limited-edition numbering (49/100) are consistent with known examples from the 1970s and 80s. The condition is generally good; however, the visible waving of the paper suggests it may be improperly hinged or reacting to humidity, which could lead to foxing or acidity issues if not addressed by a conservator. Market demand for Boulanger remains steady among collectors of mid-century whimsical art, though prices have softened from their peak in the 1990s. Comparable sales for medium-sized editions of this nature typically fall within the $600 to $900 range depending on the gallery setting. The frame shows minor wear, which is negligible to the value of the print itself. Limitations: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence only. A full authentication would require an in-person inspection to verify the paper's watermark (likely Arches or Rives BFK), examine the plate mark depth, and confirm the medium isn't a high-quality photomechanical reproduction. I would also need to inspect the verso for acidic mounting tape and review any available provenance or original gallery labels once attached to the backing.