Rare decorative panel from the Second Volume of the Album of Decoration , published by A. Calavas in Paris and printed by Bertin & Cie, Imp. de Vaugirard . Designed by Eugène Grasset , a major figure of the Art Nouveau movement, this allegorical panel represents History in the guise of a seated woman, writing on a scroll, framed by a symbolic decoration: lion, instruments and architectural motifs inspired by Antiquity.
The whole combines medieval rigor and decorative sensuality, typical of Grasset's art, which profoundly influenced illustration, stained glass and typography of the Belle Époque.
✦ Provenance: A. Calavas Publishing, Paris ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1900 ✦ Dimensions: 36.5 × 26.5 cm ✦ Material: Chromolithograph on heavy laid paper ✦ Condition: Good overall condition – slight marginal moisture marks, small discreet pinpricks, colors perfectly preserved - small chip in the lower right corner.
An emblematic work of Grasset's style, combining symbolism and decorative art, highly prized by collectors of academic Art Nouveau.
