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MARC CHAGALL | Daphnis et Chloé (Mourlot 308-349; Cramer books 46)
Estimate
400,000 - 600,000 GBP
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Description
- Marc Chagall
- Daphnis et Chloé (Mourlot 308-349; Cramer books 46)
- small-format sheets: approx. 541 by 378mm 21 1/4 by 14 3/4 in; large-format sheets: approx. 540 by 755mm 22 1/2 by 30 1/2 in
- overall: 800 by 590mm 31 1/2 by 23 1/4 in
The complete portfolio from the deluxe edition of 60, comprising 42 lithographs printed in colours, 1961, each sheet signed in pencil, numbered 6/60, with the title-page and list of plates, on Arches wove paper, loose (as issued), printed by Mourlot, published by Tériade, Paris, contained in the original imitation parchment paper-covered boards
Provenance
Tériade (Stratis Eleftheriades), ParisAcquired from Alice Tériade, widow of the above, by the present owner in 1995
Condition
The full sheets, in good condition, with vibrant colours, some sheets with stray minute fox marks towards the sheet edges, the original imitation-parchment paper covered boards with some paper discoloration.(Some slight discoloration to the sheets consistent with works of this age).
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
A legendary love story, Longus’ Daphnis et Chloé has captivated romantic imaginations for centuries, though no artist has responded to the tale as ardently as Marc Chagall. His magnificent portfolio of 42 prints illustrating the early Greek novel is widely considered his greatest graphic achievement. Each kaleidoscopic lithograph is rife with romantic symbolism, dazzling with the vivid colours and bold lines for which the painter-printmaker is best known.Chagall initially set to work reinterpreting Longus’ story in 1952 at the suggestion of his dear friend, the famed publisher Tériade. A native of Lesbos, Tériade, born Stratis Eleftheriades, encouraged Chagall to visit Greece, where he sourced inspiration for the project firsthand. With his new wife Vava in tow, the artist explored the best of Athens, Poros, Delphi, Olympia and their environs. Enchanted by the colours of Greece’s ancient ruins and coastlines, he sketched endless landscapes in gouache and pastel.
Upon returning to Paris, Chagall spent three years painstakingly re-inventing his preparatory sketches as lithographs. With guidance and assistance from colourist Charles Sorlier, he gained command of the fluid, transparent medium of lithographic ink, sometimes employing as many as 25 different hues to achieve a desired composition. Remarkably vibrant and in pristine condition, the present Daphnis et Chloé set from the sought-after edition of 60 best displays this mastery of colour. Acquired directly from Tériade's family, this complete set is not only an aesthetic and technical masterpiece, but a rare relic of 20th century print history.
Upon returning to Paris, Chagall spent three years painstakingly re-inventing his preparatory sketches as lithographs. With guidance and assistance from colourist Charles Sorlier, he gained command of the fluid, transparent medium of lithographic ink, sometimes employing as many as 25 different hues to achieve a desired composition. Remarkably vibrant and in pristine condition, the present Daphnis et Chloé set from the sought-after edition of 60 best displays this mastery of colour. Acquired directly from Tériade's family, this complete set is not only an aesthetic and technical masterpiece, but a rare relic of 20th century print history.