A set of three design studies for batik panels, attributed to Chris Lebeau circa 1903 -1904

ink and watercolour on paper, regular geometrical pattern of rosettes and linear motifs, framed in a modern three-fold oak screen

Cf. exhib. cat. Assen 1987, p. 72, fig. 64b and mus. cat. Delfini 2004, p. 248, no. 352 

General traces of age and wear, uninspected out of frames
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Chris Lebeau (1878 - 1945 is considered one of the most original and versatile artisans of the Nieuwe Kunst (see also lots 200, 201, 243 & 244). His first batik works date from right after his graduation at the school of applied arts in 1899, when architect T. K. L. Sluyterman asked Lebeau to assist him with the decoration of the Dutch pavillion at the 1900 Paris World Fair. Lebeau designed several decorative panels, some of which were executed in batik. After this experience, Lebeau immersed himself in the batik process, working with several more experienced artists in this field to refine his technique. Within a few years, Lebeau's batik work was exhibited and awarded at numerous national and international exhibitions, including Turin and Düsseldorf in 1902 and Copenhagen and St. Louis (USA) in 1904. 

The designs here offered are believed to be studies for a three-fold screen commissioned by the burgomaster of Watergraafsmeer, a town just outside Amsterdam. The three batiked parchment panels of this screen were decorated with a pattern of stylised flamingo's on recto and geometrical motifs on verso, very similar to the designs here offered. The finished panels, mounted in mahogany frames designed by Jac. van den Bosch, were eventually declined by the burgomaster. The screen, which was almost destroyed by the outraged Lebeau, was purchased in 1905 by a committee especially founded for this purpose and gifted to the Amsterdam Stedelijk Museum. The designs here offered are mounted in modern oak frames inspired by the original frames by Van den Bosch