Retail Origin: Originally sold at Joseph Horne Co., a historic department store based in Pittsburgh, PA. Price tags indicate an original retail price of $69.95 each (likely mid-20th century).
Condition: Both paintings are reported to be in excellent condition with intact backing, labels, and original hanging wire.
Pair of Decotique Oil Paintings – Style 7690B
Item Description:
A matched pair of vintage oil paintings titled “Vogue Style 7690 B,” produced by the Reliable MFG. Co. under the Décotique brand. The paintings depict a man and woman in traditional bullfighting attire and are executed on natural wood panels in oil. Each piece measures approximately 36” x 45” and is marked as an "Original Oil Painting" on the back.
Manufacturer Details:
Condition:
Both paintings are reported to be in excellent condition with intact backing, labels, and original hanging wire.
Artistic & Decorative Appeal:
Décotique paintings were part of a mid-century trend for large-scale, dramatic home décor featuring hand-finished oil paintings in ornate or stylized themes. This pair features Spanish bullfighting costume imagery—an uncommon and distinctive subject matter—which adds cultural flair and collector interest.
Estimated Current Value (2025):
Recommendation:
If you plan to sell or insure the pieces, you may consider a professional appraisal, especially from a vintage decorative arts specialist or an appraiser familiar with mid-century American wall décor. Selling as a set could increase appeal to interior decorators or collectors of period décor.