Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is an intricate three-dimensional paper toll (or decoupage) floral sculpture featuring vibrant yellow irises and delicate white blossoms, hand-signed by the noted American artist Robert Laessig. The artwork is constructed by meticulously cutting, shaping, and layering multiple identical prints to create a striking, shadowbox-enclosed depth.
Story
Robert Laessig spent decades designing beautiful floral greeting cards for American Greetings in Cleveland. He transformed his commercial illustrations into these mesmerizing 3D paper sculptures, hand-assembling them to bring his flat watercolors to life.
Maker / Origin
Robert Laessig (1913–2015) was a highly celebrated Ohio-based artist who studied at the Art Academy of Dresden before immigrating to the United States. He served as an official war artist during WWII and later became a beloved designer for American Greetings, all while maintaining a prestigious fine art career that earned him associate membership in the National Academy of Design.
Condition & Value
The paper sculpture appears to be in excellent condition with no visible crushing or fading to the yellow pigments. The vintage silver-gilt shadowbox frame shows minor surface wear consistent with age, and the backing paper should be inspected for acid-free status to ensure long-term preservation.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.