Two framed vintage bird prints with Hebrew letters
I have two framed bird prints. I purchased these at an estate sale of a Jewish person in Atlanta that traveled to Israel frequently. They appear to be signed Itzhak Ofer, who was primarily known as an Israeli sculptor, but I did find one reference to prints that he made. I'm not sure if he made these or not. The print with the single bird has yellowed from age or heat, and has a bend in it. The other print wtih the two birds is in better condition. They were framed but we added new mats, glass, paper on the back, and painted the frames.
With frame: 22 3/8 wide by 16" tall. The images (without the signature space) are 17 1/4" wide x 11 7/16" tall
Other
Yes
Hello, this item is a pair of limited edition prints depicting stylized birds, signed “Itzhak Ofer,” with accompanying Hebrew inscription. The composition, with its minimal line work and restrained palette, aligns with mid to late 20th century Israeli graphic production, where artists often explored calligraphic forms and symbolic imagery rooted in local visual culture. The presence of edition numbers such as “37/50” confirms these are part of a small print run, likely produced as serigraphs or lithographs rather than unique works. While Itzhak Ofer is primarily known as a sculptor, it is not uncommon for artists of his generation to produce graphic works alongside their primary practice. The signature and numbering appear consistent across both works, suggesting they belong to the same series.
From a market perspective, these works sit within the decorative and regional art segment rather than the international blue chip market. Condition plays a role here, particularly the noted yellowing and slight warping in one print, which affects desirability. The fact that the frames and mats have been replaced does not add value and may slightly reduce collector interest. Comparable Israeli prints by lesser-known or regionally collected artists typically trade between $150 and $400 USD per piece depending on condition and presentation. As a pair, a fair market value would be in the range of $300 to $700 USD.
Hi Rochelle,
Thank you for your message. The Hebrew letters appear to be י ע, which would be read as the initials “Y. A.” or, more likely in this context, the Hebrew initials for Yitzhak Ofer, since his name in Hebrew is typically written as יצחק עופר. In other words, they do not appear to form a separate word or phrase, but rather function as initials or a monogram.
As to whether these are in fact by the Israeli sculptor Itzhak Ofer, I would say the attribution is plausible, but I cannot confirm it with complete certainty based on the photographs alone. The handwritten signature, the Hebrew initials, and the limited edition numbering all support the idea that these were issued as works by the same artist. At the same time, without a label from the publisher, a catalogue reference, exhibition history, or a documented print series tied to Ofer, the safest position is to describe them as attributed to Itzhak Ofer rather than fully authenticated works by him.
Hello, thanks for this information. Do you know what the Hebrew letters mean? Also, is this in fact made by the Israeli sculptor artist, Itzhak Ofer? Thank you.