Skippings Fine Arts has dated this piece to the 1930s.
Lydis was a fascinating personality.
It is for a Govone that she illustrated Lucian of Samotata's "Dialogues of Courtisanes" in 1930.
The original drawing here presented is a study for one of the illustrations in the book. The original two tone lithograph which was the result - and which featured in the book - will be also included in the sale.
An accomplished engraver, painter and illustrator, Lydis was a member of the Salon d’Automne. She escaped Paris and the ensuing Nazi roundup of Jews, Lydis and her lover Erica Marx lived for a brief time in Winchcombe, England before sailing as a refugee to Buenos Aires in July of 1940. She and Marx lived and worked in Argentina until Lydis' death in Recoletta, Buenos Aires on April 26, 1970.
Lydis was also close to the aviator Amelia Earhart. Mariette Lydis lived in Argentina for the rest of her life. Her style was influenced by that of the Japanese artist Tsuguharu Foujita, whom she knew in Montmartre. There is always an edge of ambiguous sexuality and danger in the art of Mariette Lydis, whose best work was undoubtedly created in the 1920s and 30s.Her work is in many major museums and collections worldwide.
Our drawing dates from 1929/1930, is unsigned, with annotations by the artist's hand under the mat.
Iy measures 27 x 17,5 cm. The overall size with a handsome frame are 48 x 38 cm.
Skippings Fine Arts has dated this piece to the 1930s.
Modern french & continental pictures selected by a former french auction house expert
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Magnificient Antique Female Nude Drawing Art Deco Period 1930 by Mariette Lydis - For Dialogues of Courtisanes by Lucian of Samosata