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FREE APPRAISAL OF ARTWORK BY THÉO TOBIASSE – VALUATION & AUCTION SERVICES IN SAINT-PAUL-DE-VENCE
Théo Tobiasse (1927–2012) holds a singular position in the history of 20th-century art. Painter, draughtsman, printmaker and sculptor, he developed an immediately recognizable body of work in which biblical memory, Mediterranean wandering and narrative lyricism intertwine. His art is deeply shaped by themes of exile, identity and transmission, expressed through a rich iconography of allegorical figures, handwritten texts and vibrant colours. Tobiasse often stated:
“I am a painter of memory. I paint what has been forgotten, yet continues to burn within us.”¹
Born in Kaunas, Lithuania, into a Jewish family forced into exile, Théo Tobiasse arrived in France in the 1930s. Largely self-taught, he nevertheless immersed himself in the Parisian artistic milieu of the post-war period. From an early stage, his work stood out for its highly personal pictorial language, combining drawing, calligraphy, biblical symbols and dreamlike scenes. From the 1960s onward, Tobiasse gained international recognition. His works were exhibited throughout France, Europe, the United States and Israel. He developed a dense visual language, sometimes reminiscent of illuminated manuscripts, in which image and text engage in constant dialogue. As art historian Jean Clair observed:
“In Tobiasse’s work, painting becomes a place of narration, a surface where intimate history meets collective memory.”²
Théo Tobiasse and Saint-Paul-de-Vence: a decisive connection
Théo Tobiasse settled permanently in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the legendary village of modern art, where he lived and worked for many years. This choice was far from incidental: the Mediterranean light, the proximity of major 20th-century artists and the village’s spiritual atmosphere profoundly nourished his work.
It was in Saint-Paul-de-Vence that Tobiasse created a significant part of his paintings, drawings and sculptures. The village became a space of synthesis between biblical memory and pictorial modernity. This geographical and historical proximity now gives Saint-Paul-de-Vence a privileged status within the market for Théo Tobiasse’s work.
👉 Our auction house benefits from an exceptionally strong local and international network of collectors, art lovers and institutions dedicated to Théo Tobiasse, often enabling higher sale results than those achieved in less specialized contexts.
Our expertise for your Théo Tobiasse artworks
A recognised local expertise
Based in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, our auction house assists collectors, heirs and art enthusiasts with the appraisal, authentication and sale of works by Théo Tobiasse. Our in-depth knowledge of his oeuvre, artistic periods and market dynamics is a decisive asset.
A free, transparent and tailored appraisal
We provide free and confidential valuations for drawings, gouaches, paintings, lithographs, prints and sculptures. Each appraisal is based on:
-stylistic and technical analysis,
-Théo Tobiasse’s current market value,
-recent auction results in France and internationally.
A bespoke sales strategy
We advise on the most appropriate strategy: public auction, private sale or targeted presentation. Each Tobiasse artwork deserves a specific approach, taking into account its period, iconography and provenance.
Types of Théo Tobiasse artworks we appraise
Drawings, gouaches & works on paper
Works on paper form the core of Tobiasse’s production. Their value depends on the period, quality of execution, presence of inscriptions and signature.
Lithographs & prints
Théo Tobiasse produced numerous original lithographs, often signed and numbered. We assess the edition, condition, printing quality and current demand.
Paintings & mixed media
His paintings—sometimes incorporating collage and handwritten inscriptions—are among the most sought-after works. Composition, format and provenance play a decisive role.
Sculptures & bronzes
From the 1980s onward, Tobiasse developed a sculptural practice (bronzes, bas-reliefs). Valuation depends on casting quality, patina, edition size and signature.
The art market for Théo Tobiasse
The market for Théo Tobiasse is strong and international, supported by sustained demand for his emblematic works.
-Signed drawings and gouaches: from €3,000 to over €25,000
-Original lithographs: between €1,200 and €6,000 depending on edition and condition
-Paintings: tens of thousands of euros, depending on period and format
-Sculptures and bronzes: regularly exceeding €30,000
Our continuous monitoring of auction results ensures that each appraisal reflects current market realities.
How to have your Théo Tobiasse artwork appraised
1-Contact us for an initial free appraisal
2-Send photographs (front, back, signature, details)
3-Receive your appraisal within 48 hours
4-In-depth examination by appointment in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
5-Sale and targeted promotion
6-Sale completed & prompt settlement
👉 Request your free appraisal of a Théo Tobiasse artwork today.
For remote appraisals, you may fill out our online evaluation form.
To have your treasures assessed, consult our appraisal day calendar or contact us directly.
FAQ – Théo Tobiasse Appraisal
What does the free appraisal include?
A realistic value range based on analysis of the artwork and current market trends.
Which factors influence Théo Tobiasse’s market value?
Period, technique, iconography, signature, condition, provenance and market demand.
Can I receive an appraisal remotely?
Yes, based on photographs. A physical examination is recommended prior to any sale.
Why sell a Théo Tobiasse artwork in Saint-Paul-de-Vence?
Because Tobiasse lived and worked here, and the village today brings together collectors and specialists of his work, fostering higher sale results.
Bibliographic References
1-Théo Tobiasse, Entre mémoire et lumière, exhibition catalogue, Éditions Somogy, Paris, 1995.
2-Jean Clair, L’art en mémoire, Gallimard, Paris, 2003.
3-Daniel Marchesseau, Théo Tobiasse, Éditions de la Différence, Paris, 1990.