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| The Masquarade |
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| Artist: | Maurice Milliere |
| Date: | 1920- 1925 |
| Medium: | Gouache and or watercolor on Illustration Board |
| Dimensions: | Sight Size 20" by 44" Framed 35" by 27" |
| Condition: | Excellent |
| Original Use: | Interior story art for La Vie Parisienne |
| Price: | $6900.00 |
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| Above: Detail |
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| Above: Framed in finest quality gold leaf museum quality carved frame |
An original cleverly conceived humorous gouache Edwardian boudoir themed interior painting illustration for the notorious French publication La Vie Parisienne. The long running, provocotive at times, erotic and racy magazine that chronicled the exploits and sexual proclivities of sassy and free spirited French follies showgirls and their often dim witted suitors in risque, breezy, spicy pulp-like fashion. Along with Raphael Kirchner, Maurice Milliere was a frequent contributor of cover illustrations and interior full page colorplates. French text on margin translates to "I'm all that you have". This is a fine rare work which is handsomely framed in a museum quality genuine gold leaf, gilt hand carved frame .
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| Above: Frame detail |
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| Above: Unframed view of gouache on illustration board |
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| Above: Verso notations |
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| Above: The artists signature and caption in french in lower left margin |
Maurice Milliere (1871 -1946) was a prolific French illustrator, artist, designer and etcher. He was a key figure in what has come to be regarded as "Boudoir Art" , and an influence on later artists like Louis Icart. Born in Normandy, France, Maurice Millière began his art education in Le Havre, but was soon transferred to the Ecole des Beaux-Arts and Arts Décoratifs in Paris where he was a classmate of Toulouse-Lautrec and Raoul Dufy among others.
His skill as a draftsman translated quickly into success as an illustrator and his brilliant interpretation of the "Modern Parisienne" soon became known as the "Petite femme de Millière". Using the technique of color etching and drypoint, Millière created a modern woman who was coy, charming, independent and beautiful. Slightly erotic and very adorable, Millière's portrayals became known as "Femmes Poupées" or "Doll Women", and with them, he created the genre of Boudoir Art.
Millière's success continued to grow during the 1920's. He was made a Chevalier de Legion d'Honneur, and his concern for the welfare of children affected by World War I led him to become the treasurer for Charitable Works in Montmartre where he lived. Although his art became slightly less erotic and more sedate during this time he continued to work steadily and in various mediums.
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