The Chinese Gown 1890-94 |
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Original lithograph. Signed in pencil. Ref: Hausberg 170 S 412 x 261 mm; I 235 x 213 mm SOLD |
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Rare pencil signed proof impression. Although Hausberg records the only edition of this lithograph to have been about 20 impressions, she notes “It is rarely found signed in pencil”.
Theodore Roussel moved to England in 1874 and set up his studio in Chelsea, not far from where Whistler lived. Whistler is known to have sought Roussel out specifically, first meeting him in 1885. It was as a result of this contact that Theodore Roussel was convinced to commit himself fully towards printmaking. He was much influenced by Whistler in his printmaking and even took to trimming his proofs to the platemark, leaving a tab for the signature in the Master’s manner. Whistler had a high regard for Theodore Roussel as a follower of his style, especially admiring the exquisite care and refinement which the younger artist would lavish upon the printing of his proofs.
This beautiful example of Theodore Roussel’s work in lithography demonstrates the extent to which he had absorbed many aspects of Whistler’s style. The image shows Harriet Pettigrew, Roussel’s favourite model, wearing an oriental ‘opera cloak’ thought to have been a studio prop shared with Whistler.
On cream laid paper with full margins, laid on support sheet. Generally good condition. |
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