Authenticating Erte (Romain de Tirtoff) artwork requires meticulous examination of specific details, as reproductions and forgeries abound. Focus on these essential elements:
Signature Verification
- Consistency & Location: Genuine Erte signatures appear on the actual artwork (etching, drawing, sculpture base), never solely on certificates or mats. Study authenticated examples – his signature style evolved subtly over decades.
- Authentic Variations: Look for variations like "Erte", "Romain de Tirtoff", or "RT". "© Erte" followed by a date or serial number (on serigraphs, post-1968) is crucial. Post-1960 signatures often include the registered trademark symbol ®.
- Imperfections: While consistent, original signatures are hand-applied; expect minor, natural variations in ink flow or pressure, not mechanical perfection.
Medium & Material Quality
- Sculptures: Authentic bronzes are heavy, cold to the touch, with fine, intricate details in hair, drapery, and facial features. Patinas are rich and complex. Resin or lightweight "bronze" finishes are immediate red flags.
- Prints (Serigraphs/Lithographs): Colors should be vibrant and exceptionally crisp. Examine edges; true serigraphs show very sharp color separations under magnification. Paper quality is high, often with a watermark (e.g., Arches France). Later prints (Crystal/Artcarved editions) include elaborate numbering and chopmarks.
- Drawings/Paintings: Expect masterful draftsmanship. Ink lines are confident, fluid, and precise. Gouache paintings show layered opaqueness. Beware of digital reproductions or poor-quality printing mimicking brushstrokes.
Provenance & Documentation
- Traceable History: Reputable galleries (like Circle Gallery, Salander) issued detailed certificates. Erte Studios (now Erte Fine Art, UK) manages the official archives.
- Catalogues Raisonnés: Reference definitive publications like "Erte: The Last Works" (Kharoubi/Forest) or Erte Studio catalogues documenting editions and details for prints/sculptures.
- Red Flags: Vague origins, missing or photocopied certificates, inconsistent edition numbering compared to documented sizes. "Rediscovered" pieces require extraordinary proof.
Workmanship & Detail
- Intricacy: Erte's hallmark is incredible detail. Scrutinize complex patterns, textures (fur, fabric, metalwork), and delicate features like hands and faces – they should exhibit fine artistry, not blur or simplification.
- Craftsmanship: Seamless sculptural joins, flawless bronze casting (minimal pitting, vent marks discreetly placed), and perfect registration on multi-color prints are essential hallmarks. Signs of mass production or poor finishing indicate counterfeits.
Authenticating Erte demands expertise – always consult established auction house specialists or Erte Fine Art for significant items. Provenance paired with rigorous physical examination of signature, medium, and craftsmanship is paramount.
