This is a hand coloured and plate-signed pochoir from Modes et Manieres d'Aujourd'hui (Plate I), which was one of the most exclusive "lifestyle" publications to emerge from Paris (1912 to 1922). With an annual edition size of only 300, existing copies are quite rare and highly collectible. The 1914 edition, entirely illustrated by Barbier, illustrates a sensuous and hedonistic world, in this case the opulent "boudoir" with its deco rose wallpaper, laquered Chinese side table, Turkish tassled drapery and fine porcelain coffee service. Barbier's attention to whim and detail extends right down to the painted finger and toe nails and the gold tipped slippers. The ultimate goal is sheer indulgence and languor. Each image in this famous series is on fine Japan paper.
H. 10.875in X W. 7.125in; H. 27.6cm X W. 18.1cm |