Stunning Miniature "The Alhambra Cinema" with Valentino as the Son of the Sheik

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Stunning Miniature "The Alhambra Cinema" with Valentino as the Son of the Sheik

About the Item

This stunning miniature is the work of the extremely talented Canadian artist, designer and miniaturist, Arline Smith and, we believe, is best described in her own words: "The Alhambra Cinema is an exploration of the distortion of reality in film productions and photographic stills. Taking a promotional film still from the silent movie "Son of the Sheik" starring silent screen idol Rudolph Valentino and Vilma Banky, I have recreated what is seen within the 8'' x 10" frame of the photograph where details are softened and distance is manipulated by the use of a wide-angle lens. To reproduce the ‘atmosphere’ of the photograph it was necessary to diffuse the patterning of the fabrics and carpets and lower the floor level at the rear of the set to force the perspective. As the film was shot in black and white, the colours of the finished piece were a best-guess, based on the tonal qualities of the original photograph. With the exception of the wine glasses, all the items in the original photograph had to be reproduced from scratch. Paint, printing, embroidery, and appliqué were utilized to recreate the patterning on the fabrics, drapery and carpets. I also used skills and techniques developed during my career in theatre and film: wood-turning, metal fabrication, sculpting, and costume creation. Appropriate substitution of fabric was made when recreating the divan as it would have been well nigh impossible to reproduce the original patterning in such a small scale. The scenario is housed in my interpretation of a Egyptian Revival/ Moorish-style ‘atmospheric’ cinema of the type that became popular in the late 1920’s". As can be seen in Michael Wallace's excellent photographs, this amazing work, from the artist's private collection, is in fantastic condition and displays fabulously.

Creator:
Arline Smith (Artist)
Dimensions:
Height: 27 in (68.58 cm)Width: 24 in (60.96 cm)Depth: 23 in (58.42 cm)
Style:
Egyptian Revival (In the Style Of)
Place of Origin:
Canada
Period:
2000-2009
Date of Manufacture:
circa 2002
Condition:
This piece is lit with 12v miniature spotlights but can be rewired to suit purchasers location and would be specialist crated for shipping under the supervision of the artist.
Seller Location:
Port Hope, CA
Reference Number:
Seller: DD 0003501stDibs: LU100032386372