Exquisite, rare, and unparalleled, this original 1/1 ‘ARNIES’ illuminated glass artwork that once hung pride of place, with its stunningly intricate engravings, remains as it was: elegantly mounted and framed in its genuine original polished chrome Art Deco style frame.

In 1970, the iconic artist Caroline Smith was appointed by the famed Arnie Morton (restaurateur and Executive Vice President of the Playboy clubs) to create the design and logo for his illustrious star-studded restaurant and night club ARNIES in Chicago. This venue, celebrated for its vibrant and opulent ambiance, served as a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife. Smith’s striking and colourful design, featuring a central female figure flanked by parrots, perfectly encapsulated the essence of the era. This emblematic image and that of the parrot, not only became iconic but also adorned the restaurant’s menus and merchandise, heralding the start of a remarkable legacy for this artwork.

In 1976, Caroline revisited the design, creating a stylized painting adorned with gold leaf. This new version added depth and richness to the original concept while maintaining its signature vibrant colour palette and Art Deco influences. The painting was sold to her friend acclaimed Opera singer Arnold Bowman, who became a significant part of its history. Known for his eccentric personality, Bowman cherished the painting, and it became a beloved part of his family’s history. His relatives fondly refer to the central figure as “Auntie,” imbuing the work with familial affection and a deep personal connection.

Decades later, in 2017, Caroline Smith’s design experienced a revival when it was featured in the satirical television series, I’m Dying Up Here, which humorously depicted the world of nightclubs and stand-up comedy.  The image again captivated a new generation, demonstrating its enduring appeal and cultural resonance.

But the story doesn’t end there. In 1979, Caroline was commissioned to create two large murals referencing the Iconic design that she had created for ‘Arnie’s’ for the Holiday Inn, Cairo along with two immense glass engraved doors. Unfortunately, the project was met with a tragic end—The glass doors were famously stolen whilst in transit, and the murals within the hotel that became a prominent tourist attraction were destroyed in a firebomb during the conflict in 1986.

This etched glass artwork by Caroline Smith radiates a mesmerizing elegance, blending intricate symbolism with a commanding presence of symmetry. The central figure, a nude woman, stands as a symbol of strength and serenity, exuding an almost ethereal quality. The parrots perched on either side of her evoke a sense of harmony between the natural and the divine, their forms perfectly mirroring one another. The curves of the woman’s body are echoed in the surrounding shapes, from the delicate lines of the birds’ wings to the circular patterns framing the composition, giving the piece a profound sense of unity and balance.

The tropical flora in the background hints at a lush paradise, an exotic Eden where humans and nature coexist. There is a reverence for the feminine form here—her gaze serene yet powerful, her posture confidently central to the tableau. The luminous green tint gives the glass an almost supernatural glow, a vibrancy that draws the viewer into this otherworldly realm.

The execution on etched glass adds another layer of complexity, as light dances across the surface, enhancing the interplay of shadows and highlighting the detailed craftsmanship. This piece transcends the limitations of its medium and transforms the static into fluid, evoking a sense of movement and life within the rigid confines of glass. The overall effect is hypnotic, inviting contemplation of the delicate balance between human, nature, and the metaphysical, all within the confines of this richly symbolic work. The etched glass celebrates the medium’s delicate intricacy while embracing a timeless and universal narrative.