corporate clients.

Co-owner of the firm, Mr. Tim Sorbey, believes the scheme, which is popular in North America, is new to Bermuda.

Paintings and sculptures can be rented on a monthly basis for between one and five percent of its sale price.

If a renter does not decide to buy the work after three months, it must be returned to Mouton Noir's gallery on the corner of Reid and Burnaby Streets, in Hamilton.

But they can then take out another item for a further three-month period.

"It's a good way to impress the neighbours,'' joked Mr. Sorbey.

He said: "The rental service is something we've been wanting to implement since opening last July.

"However, we decided it was wiser to get up and running first and iron out any wrinkles in the operation.'' He added: "It is an excellent way for people to take home anywhere from one to 20 paintings or sculptures for a fraction of the retail price.

"For example, a $7,000 painting rents for just $60 per month and a $400 painting or sculpture for only $25 per month.'' The scheme involves a large element of trust on the part of Mouton Noir, since the gallery does not charge a deposit.

"We trust people,'' said Mr. Sorbey. "As long as we know where they live, that's all we require.'' Customers are responsible for any damage but, said Mr. Sorbey, "These works are much more durable than people think''.

He said the service should prove particularly attractive to businesses in need of a face-lift.

"We will draw up an affordable proposal whereby the gallery will supply suitable works of art, hang them properly and then come in and change them every three months for other superb pieces if the company does not wish to purchase them,'' he added.

"Also, it's perfect if you've recently moved into a new apartment or home and are tired of looking at blank walls.'' The scheme was beneficial to someone who saw a work in the gallery but was unsure about whether to buy it, said Mr. Sorbey.

"They can take it home and live with it for a month or more and decide if it fits in with their personal tastes and decor before plunging into an expensive purchase which they may later regret,'' he said.

"Art is a substantial investment: hence, this is a very affordable way to beautify a room, hang a centrepiece above the fireplace, fill a complete room or create an impressive working environment.'' Mr. Sorbey jointly owns Mouton Noir with Mr. Duncan Tavares.

RENT-A-PAINTING -- Co-owner of Mouton Noir art gallery Mr. Tim Sorbey, left, with sales staff Ms Cecilia Tavares and Mr. Michael Hutley.