Vintage Mid-Century Modern Three Kings Enameled Copper Art “The Magi” Triptych by Phyllis Wallen

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This framed set of three artworks titled The Magi was created by San Diego–based artist and enamelist Phyllis Wallen (1909–2000), … Read more This framed set of three artworks titled The Magi was created by San Diego–based artist and enamelist Phyllis Wallen (1909–2000), a well-recognized figure in the Southern California craft movement. Executed in her signature medium of enamel on copper tiles, the works exemplify Wallen’s distinctive Mid-Century Modern style, known for its graphic clarity, symbolic imagery, and vibrant, jewel-like color. Wallen developed her own enameling techniques later in life, often etching the copper surface before applying transparent enamels to create depth and luminosity.

The subject depicts the Three Wise Men from the biblical narrative, rendered in Wallen’s stylized, figurative manner reminiscent of playing card court figures, each holding symbolic gifts. The compositions feature elongated lines, bold color contrasts, and a strong graphic presence characteristic of her work. The three pieces are mounted on dark gray matting and presented together in a single silver-toned metal frame. An informational card related to the artwork is affixed to the back, making this a well-documented and visually striking example of Southern California Mid-Century Modern enamel art. See less