Wise Guy (variation 2)
Object Name
"Wise Guy" abstract owl on a money-tree branch, box bag
Dimensions
0 L x 0 H x 0 D in.
Date
Prob. 1967 (see Copyright info. under "Design")
DESCRIPTION
Summary
Multi-color screen print of an abstract owl on natural-wood box purse. Owl has faux-jewel eyes and is perched on the branch of a "money tree," one of Collins's most famous and popular themes. Owl is printed in a gradation of jade to vivid turquoise and branch is bright green, with emerald faux-gem leaves and glittering faux-gold coins. Eyes are orange gems surrounded by white pearls, with gold filigree surrounding. Face also features Aquamarine and Topaz jewels. Background highlighted with screen printed aqua and green stars to suggest night. "wise guy" printed in hand-style script in lower left corner of front. One of several variations on this theme.
DESIGN
Title of Piece
wise guy (sic)
Artist
Enid Collins (American, 1926-1989), for Collins of Texas
Associated Product Codes
HH
General Colors
Turquoise, jade green, kelly green, gold (metal), orange, white
Collins's Colors
Aquamarine, Emerald, Topaz, Orange, Gold
Subjects
Owls, birds, wildlife, nature, wisdom, money, prosperity, humor
Signature and/or Mark
"ec" and copyright symbol screen printed on lower right front
Accessories
None
Copyright
Possibly: reg. no. GP56827; 12/01/1967; "Owl on branch"; HH
FABRICATION
Materials
Acrylic serigraph on heavily lacquered solid wood (probably mahogany); glass jewels manufactured for Collins of Texas in the Czech Republic; acrylic embellishments; hand-wrought solid brass clasps and ornaments; rigid vinyl handle; satin lining; mirror
Techniques
Serigraph (screen) print; machine-made box with hand-applied stain and lacquer; hand-wrought solid brass; some hand assembly (hand application of jewels)
Place of Manufacture
Medina, Texas
Places of Sale
Unknown
Rarity
Unrated
CONDITION
Condition
Very good
Condition notes
Typical wear from use; serigraph in very good condition, as are clasps, hinges and handles; original jewels intact and in place
Preservation notes
None
NOTES
Additional notes
One of several variations Collins designed over the years.
Gallery
Related Items
Box BagsMichele Van HaeckeNature, Fauna (Animals), Birds, Word-Play, Trees, Colorful, Money, Coins, Night, Puns, Wildlife, Birds - Owl, 1960-1969, WComment