Description:This unique figural study done by Renoir gives us a glimpse into both the vision and brilliance of this 19th century artist. Both fascination and appreciation of the human form gave way to several extraordinary works, allowing us to share in his insight the beauty in nature captured in all forms.
Created from black ink and wax crayon on paper, this piece is signature stamped ‘Renoir’ in the upper left and inscribed ‘Cote a danse [sic]’ in the upper right. Both Guy-Patrice and Michel Dauberville have confirmed the authenticity of the work and will be included in the Bernheim-Jeune archives as an authentic, original work of art by Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919) .
This drawing becomes particularly interesting both in terms of capturing the essence of Renoir’s methodology and also the manner in which he studied and portrayed his subjects. Featuring one primary figure in a semi-reclined position, her back faces the audience, with shoulders turned one way and knees pointed the other. Thus the convoluted position in which she finds herself only paves the way for Renoir’s genius in portraying the organic, human form. A series of small, profile portraits line the lower margin of the sheet, each time her face looking in a different direction and captured at various angles. One can notice the careful attention paid to the manner in which light reflects and highlights off each of her features, creating her more familiar visage and complacent expression. This work is truly a fascinating insight to Renoir’s skill and mastery as one of the most influential 19th century artists of our time.
PROVENANCE:
The Estate of Bo Widerberg, Sweden
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that I will enclose with the sale of the work) :
1. P. Renoir & S. Pirra, 125 dessin inédits de Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Turin 1971. Illustrated as cat. no. D 0264.
2. This work will be included in the Bernheim-Jeune Archives as authenticated by Guy-Patrice and Michel Dauberville; original certificates of authenticity will be included with the work.
About the Framing:
This work is set in a beautiful, Victorian gold moulding that gracefully complements this marvelous work. Its intricately carved detailing serves to accent Renoir’s ornate composition, echoing the movement and fluidity of the bather within this scene. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching, gold inner fillet, this work is set behind a Plexiglass cover; all materials used in framing are archival to ensure lasting quality.
