Originally completed in 1930, as a watercolor on board. Diana, the goddess of the hunt and the moon, is dramatically posed with two Borzois. Diana was the symbol of virgin purity and the protector of young women. The original artwork is probably Alberto's largest scale work.
The model was Caja Eric, a Ziegfeld beauty. In the 1940's, Diana was published in Esquire Magazine with an acrylic overlay painted to comprise the green outfit. Only one actual piece was ever produced however, this nude.
The "Lifetime Portfolio"
In the late 1970s, Alberto Vargas was invited to produce a series of limited edition lithographs of a number of his early works. An agreement was reached and he chose five of his favorite Ziegfeld period beauties to be published.
A total of 1,000 prints were authorized, 500 for domestic distribution and 500 for international release. None of these were signed by Vargas, rather they were signed by an authorized representative as a "Proxy Signature".
After the main edition was finalized, the publishers approached Vargas to personally hand-sign 50 additional prints designated as Artist Proofs. He agreed and thus he created the only limited edition "Artist Signed" prints by Alberto Vargas.
The Lifetime Portfolio prints are offset lithographs on BFK Rives fine-art paper.
Collector's Notes:
We generally have a small inventory of proxy-signed pieces available that can be purchased using the CHOOSE A SIZE button below. Orders will be shipped within 2-4 days.
We may also have a hand-signed version in stock. Please contact us for availability and pricing on these pieces!
Buyers will receive a certificate of authenticity following the delivery of their artwork.