Pair of theater costume design watercolor sketches with fabric swatches

This pair of original illustrations consists of two costume design sketches on textured watercolor paper. Each illustration depicts a stylized female figure dressed in theatrical attire, one in a green and black gown with white ruffled sleeves and the other in a light blue flowing dress with ribbon-like accents. Both pieces feature small fabric swatches attached to the lower right corner, likely intended for production reference. The top sketch bears handwritten text in the upper right corner reading 'The Artful Widow', 'Rosaura', and 'Act I', consistent with designs for a production of the Goldoni play. The bottom sketch is labeled 'IRIS' in large blue letters. Both sheets appear to bear a signature in the lower left corner reading 'Sally Kathryn McArthur', suggesting an attribution to that designer, though this remains unverified without professional authentication of the handwriting. The technique appears to be watercolor or gouache over light graphite. The condition of the paper shows minor yellowing consistent with age, and the fabric swatches are adhered with what appears to be aged adhesive. The artistic style is consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century theatrical rendering standards. No definitive date is visible, but the materials and presentation suggest a professional design portfolio context.

I have evaluated the provided images of two theatrical costume design sketches. Based on what I can see, these pieces appear to be watercolor or gouache renderings on textured paper, featuring attached fabric swatches and handwritten annotations. The top sketch bears a notation for Goldoni's 'The Artful Widow' and both sheets bear a signature consistent with the designer Sally Kathryn McArthur. However, I cannot verify the signature or the age of the materials from a photo; a physical inspection would be required to examine the paper's fiber, the adhesive used for the swatches, and the ink's penetration to ensure these are not later reproductions or digital prints with added pigments. The value estimate of $400 - $700 reflects the market for a pair of professional-grade theatrical illustrations assuming the attribution to McArthur is correct. These items are valued by collectors of theatrical memorabilia and mid-century design. The presence of fabric swatches and production notes adds significant 'process' value, which is desirable in this niche market. I am basing this on general market trends where costume renderings from known regional or professional designers often command mid-range prices at boutique auctions. To confirm the standing of these works, one would need provenance documentation or an in-person examination by a specialist in 20th-century stage design. If these were determined to be copies, students' exercises 'in the style of' the designer, or later lithographic reproductions, the value would likely drop to a decorative range of $50 - $100 for the pair. The current condition, showing minor yellowing and aged adhesive, is typical for work-product artifacts of this era and does not significantly detract from the value provided the paper remains stable.