Artwork deep dive: Man Ray’s ‘Observatory Time - The Lovers’

Printed in 1998, this rare offset lithograph reproduces Man Ray’s surrealist oil painting, A L'Heure de L'Observatoire - Les Amoureux. Translating to ‘Observatory Time - The Lovers’, this wonderfully Surrealist work was a deeply personal piece for the artist.

Painted between 1932-1934 and standing at a spectacular three feet high by eight feet wide, the work combines Surrealist themes and symbolism, and was inspired by a recent heartbreak.

The larger than life crimson lips that float above the Parisian skyline belong to the model and celebrated photographer Lee Miller, who had moved from New York to Paris in 1929. The pair collaborated on projects, and they entered into a romantic relationship, with Lee also becoming Ray’s muse for his pioneering explorations in photography.

Also featured in the painting is The Paris Observatory. Located on the left bank of the Seine, the historic building is a leading centre of astrological study. Its appearance in the work, situated beneath the poised lips, offers a wonderful link to the Surrealist focus on dreamlike states, painting from the subconscious, love and mysticism.