About this sheet
Elegant Portrait “Evelyn” – Art Deco Print by I.M. Cohen, Haagsche Post 1928
Lively and expressive portrait titled Evelyn, created by British artist I.M. Cohen R.O.I. (Royal Institute of Oil Painters) and published as a richly colored chromolithograph in the Haagsche Post Christmas edition of 25 December 1928 (No. 739). This striking image captures a modern woman of the late 1920s—smiling, self-assured, and stylish—embodying the free spirit and sophistication of the Art Deco era.
The sitter, Evelyn, is portrayed seated in a relaxed pose, with short, softly waved brown hair and a bright, engaging expression. She wears a dark, flowing dress with a red scarf or accent trailing along her neckline, adding vibrancy and contrast to the more muted background. The brushwork and background texture mimic oil painting technique, which is not surprising given Cohen’s background in fine art portraiture.
Isaac Michael Cohen (1879–1932) was a British artist who exhibited frequently in London and was affiliated with the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. His work typically blended impressionistic brushwork with solid academic portraiture, often featuring fashionable women in everyday or semi-formal settings. His use of color and expression brought warmth and accessibility to his subjects.
The print is signed “I.M. Cohen” in the lower margin and features his monogrammed seal at the right of the image. It was printed by L. van Leer & Co., Amsterdam, known for their high-quality lithographic reproductions for Haagsche Post’s annual Kerstnummer (Christmas issue), which presented prominent contemporary artworks to the public in affordable and attractive formats.
This piece stands out for its painterly depth, period character, and decorative charm, making it a perfect acquisition for collectors of Art Deco portraiture, early 20th-century illustration, or British-Dutch artistic collaborations.
Condition report:
Very good condition. Mild toning in the margins and some faint age spots near the edges. No creases or tears. Image area well preserved with strong color retention.
Framing tips:
A dark wood or lacquered black frame with a soft gray or burgundy mat will enhance both the background tones and red accent. Float mounting is optional but recommended to preserve the full print and artist details.
