Grotesque Fantasies in Vibrant Detail – Chromolithographic Art from Japan, 1884
€ 390
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1884
Sheet size
27 × 40 cm (10.6 × 15.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14034-3
Condition
The print is in a very good condition with vibrant hand-coloring, minor foxing on the margins, and sharp details, typical for its age. The margins are intact and free of tears, ensuring the print remains suitable for framing or display.
About this sheet
Grotesque Fantasies with a Japanese Influence – Plate III from G. A. Audsley’s Chromolithographic Series This extraordinary chromolithograph, directed by the esteemed G. A. Audsley and published by Sampson Low & Co., draws inspiration from Japanese art and design, showcasing the rich interplay of cultural influences in 19th-century decorative works. Expertly printed by the renowned Lemercier & Cie in Paris, this piece highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and vibrant coloration for which chromolithography is celebrated.
Plate III presents a fantastical scene filled with grotesque yet whimsical characters engaged in surreal and animated interactions around a rustic wooden crate. The composition, set against a dramatic black background, mirrors the aesthetic sensibilities of Japanese decorative art, with its intricate attention to detail and bold contrasts. The figures exhibit a playful grotesquery reminiscent of Japanese folklore, further adding to the work's unique appeal.
This plate exemplifies G. A. Audsley’s ability to fuse Eastern and Western artistic traditions, resulting in a striking piece that transcends cultural boundaries. Ideal for collectors of antique prints or those intrigued by the interplay of Japanese aesthetics and Western chromolithographic techniques, this work offers a glimpse into the global artistic dialogues of its era.
Provenance: Published by Sampson Low & Co., printed by Lemercier & Cie, Paris
A rare and visually captivating work, this chromolithograph is a perfect addition to any collection focused on 19th-century art or Japanese-inspired decorative masterpieces. It is equally suited for framing and display, highlighting its vibrant and imaginative design.
