Title: Top Hats
Size: 16 x 12 Inches (26 x 22 Inches Framed)
Medium: 3D Bronze Wall Relief Sculpture
Edition: of 375
Year: 1990-1999
Notes: Hand Signed by Artist (Lower Right)and Numbered. Custom Framed
About: Romain de Tirtoff, later known as Erte, entered the world in 1892 in St. Petersburg, Russia, as the sole heir of an admiral in the Imperial Fleet, ensuring a childhood amidst the opulence of Russia's social elite. His fascination with Persian miniatures, discovered in his father's library during his youth, planted the seeds of his artistic journey. These intricate and vibrant designs would become a cornerstone of his style, guiding his creative path.
At the age of eighteen, Erte embarked on a new chapter by relocating to Paris, where he adopted the moniker "Erte," derived from the French pronunciation of his initials. His artistic prowess caught the eye of Harper’s Bazaar in 1915, marking the beginning of a prolific partnership that saw him crafting over 240 covers for the renowned magazine. Beyond the pages of Harper’s Bazaar, his innovative fashion designs graced numerous publications, cementing his status as one of the most celebrated artists of the 1920s.
Erte's artistic vision extended beyond the realm of fashion, encompassing resplendent costumes and sets for the theater, alongside exquisite limited edition prints, bronzes, and wearable art. His contributions to the arts were duly recognized, with the French government honoring him as Officer of the Arts and Letters in 1976, followed by the prestigious Medaille de Vermeil de la Ville de Paris in 1982.
The global acclaim of Erte's work is evident through its showcase in esteemed museums worldwide, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York to the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Widely hailed as the progenitor of the Art Deco Movement, Erte's timeless designs continue to captivate audiences, firmly establishing his legacy in the annals of art history.