Spanish Lace by Alberto Vargas
Alberto Vargas is perhaps the best known and most respected of all the pin-up girl artists. Born in Arequipa, Peru in 1896, he was the son of portrait photographer Max Vargas. His father secured an apprenticeship for Vargas at Julien Studios in Switzerland in 1915. Not long after arrival in Switzerland, Vargas decided that Europe during World War I was not a very healthy place to be and so traveled to New York in 1916. After two lucky breaks, producing lobby painting for Ziegfield Follies in the 20s and Hollywood portraits of stars in the 30s, Vargas was approached to provide artwork for the newly started Esquire Magazine in 1940.

To view other available artwork, click here

This limited edition print known as “Spanish Lace” is long sold out and only available on the secondary market. This piece was originally offered in 1996 with an edtion size of only 300 on Arches paper and 150 on Deluxe Opalesque paper. This print is only one of the 10 printer’s proofs printed on Arches paper that was ever produced.

From the peineta in her hair and the bangles on her wrists, one gets the impression of a mysterious Spanish gypsy: aloof, yet inviting with her green eyes and delicate gestures. The warm glow of her soft skin is framed by the contrast of her black cat, raven hair, and intricate lace shawl. This 1928 painting of a Ziegfeld Follies starlet is one of Alberto’s more unique pieces: “Spanish Lace” features a richly colored and detailed background–composition elements rarely found in his later works.

The official printers terminology for this piece is limited edition continuous-tone lithographic print.

It was published after the artists death and is therefore and estate edition. His trademarked “Varga” signature, used when he painted for Esquire, has been silk screened on the print. The print bears the designation of P.P. and 10/10 (#10 out of 10 total).

This edition was printed on Arches Paper by Black Box Collo Type Studios, Inc. which is one of the premier fine art printing houses in the world.

This print is argueably even more desirable than the normal numbered edition because there are so few printer’s proofs ever made available to the public.

This beautiful piece of art is unframed and is currently protected by cardboard backing and has cellophane plastic wrap protecing the image. The sheet size is 27 1/4 inches high by 23 1/8 inches wide while the image size is 20 1/4 inches high by 17 1/8 inches wide.
This piece can also be framed at your expense prior to shipping.

Be sure to notice the incredible detail and beauty of this print. This piece is conservatively valued at $2000. The printer has decided to liquidate his collection of prints and proofs. Be sure to contact me with any special requests.

This is a rare opportunity to own a beautiful piece of art.

Alberto Vargas was the most famous of the Twentieth Century American Pin-up artists. More than any other, he can be called the father of the American pin-up. In addition, this piece represents a chance to own a special part of the edition which is normally not available to the general public. Bid with confidence since I guarantee the authenticity of this piece.

Winning bidder to add an estimated $75 for secure packing and insured shipping in the US. International shipping will be more or pick up in the West Suburban Chicago area.