Month: November 2016

“Off to See the Wizard” of Oz: A Captivating Portrait Graphite Drawing Print by Robert Gentry

Posted on by forestmetrics

“Off to See the Wizard,” striking childrens portrait drawing by artist Robert Gentry, captures the whimsical spirit and emotional nostalgia of The Wizard of Oz while showcasing the artist’s gift for expressive realism. Though inspired by a timeless story, Gentry’s piece stands firmly in the realm of fine art, offering viewers a fresh interpretation that feels both familiar and entirely new.

SOLD OUT Wonderful print by Robert Gentry depicting children as the characters from the Wizard of Oz–Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion. Original piece appears to be a colored graphite drawing. Print is signed by the artist, “Robert Gentry.” Edition, 79/150. Approximate print dimensions: 18″ (length) x 12″ (width). Frame dimensions: 20 1/2″ (length) x 16 1/4″ (width). c. vintage. Unknown origin.

The portraits are rendered with remarkable attention to detail. Gentry’s use of delicate linework and carefully shaded textures brings out the characters’ anticipation and sense of wonder, reflecting the inner excitement of child characters were they on an extraordinary journey together. The title itself nods to the beloved chant from the classic film, but the drawing steers away from literal depictions. Instead, Gentry focuses on child-like emotion—capturing a look of innocence and joy in the subjects’ eyes and facial features that resonate with any viewer who remembers childhood friendships and play.

One of the most compelling aspects of this piece is Gentry’s ability to blend fantasy and realism. Subtle visual cues—like the tilt of the head, the slight grins, or the soft gazes—hint at a magical world beyond the frame. Yet the portrait remains grounded, almost introspective, inviting viewers to fill in the story themselves.

“Off to See the Wizard” exemplifies why Robert Gentry’s artwork connects with so many people. His portraits don’t simply recreate faces; they reveal narratives, emotions, and aspirations. This drawing, in particular, reminds us of the timeless call to adventure, the courage to pursue dreams, and the magic found in the journey itself. It’s a piece that lingers in the mind—an imaginative tribute to Oz, but even more so, a tribute to the dreamer in all of us.

Items like this are available in our eBay store.

References:

  1. The Wizard of Oz: The Official 75th Anniversary Companion by William Stillman and Jay Scarfone
  2. The Art of Oz: Witches, Wizards, and Wonders Beyond the Yellow Brick Road by Gabriel Gale, Michael Patrick and John Fricke
  3. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: Deluxe Edition – The Complete Original Unabridged Unaltered Text from 1900 by L. Frank Baum

A Closer Look at Vintage Chinese Porcelain: Tea Set with Hand-Painted Dragon, Phoenix and Floral Design

Posted on by forestmetrics

Chinese porcelain has long been admired for its craftsmanship, symbolism, and cultural depth. This hand-painted tea set from the 1980s—stamped “Made in China 11” with the Chinese characters for Zhongguo Jingdezhen—is a perfect example of this enduring tradition. Produced in Jingdezhen, often called the “Porcelain Capital of the World,” this tea set reflects both centuries-old techniques and the decorative style popular during China’s late 20th-century export era.

SOLD OUT Gorgeous colorful vintage tea set depicting a dragon and phoenix design surrounded by many different flowers such as peony, iris and water lily. Hand-painted enamel on porcelain. This tea set includes a teapot, tray and three (3) tea cups. Stamped, “Made in China 11” with the Chinese characters for Zhongguo (China) Jingdezhen. c. 1980s. Made in China.

What makes this tea set especially captivating is its dynamic combination of dragon, phoenix and floral motifs. The dragon and phoenix, two of the most iconic symbols in Chinese art, traditionally represent power, harmony, and auspicious union. The dragon embodies strength, good fortune, and authority, while the phoenix symbolizes grace, renewal, and peace. When paired together, they often signify balance, marital harmony, and the blending of yin and yang. Surrounding these mythic creatures, the floral elements soften the composition, adding elegance and natural beauty to each piece.

The hand-painted details reveal a skilled artisan’s touch—brushstrokes that bring the creatures to life with fluid movement and vivid expression. Though produced for export during the 1980s, a period when Chinese decorative wares became widely accessible, this set still carries the artistic hallmarks of Jingdezhen’s long history: thin porcelain walls, a smooth glazed finish, and vibrant enamel colors.

The base stamp, including the English “Made in China 11” and the Chinese Zhongguo Jingdezhen, helps date the set to the reform-era decades when China increased global trade. Today, tea sets like this offer both collectible value and a tangible connection to cultural heritage. Whether displayed or used for brewing tea, this piece blends artistry, symbolism, and history—an elegant reminder of why Jingdezhen porcelain continues to fascinate collectors around the world.

Items like this are currently available in our eBay store.

References:

  1. How to Read Chinese Ceramics (The Metropolitan Museum of Art) by Denise Patry Leidy
  2. Illustrated Brief History of Chinese Porcelain: History – Culture – Aesthetics by Guimei Yang and Hardie Alison
  3. Chinese Art: A Guide to Motifs and Visual Imagery by Patricia Bjaaland Welch