Mid 19th Century "L'Amazon" Figurative Pencil Drawing by Constantin Ernest, Framed

Description

Antique pencil and faded watercolor wash portrait titled "L'Amazon" (French, translates "horsewoman") by Constantin Guys (French, circa 1860. Artwork professionally … more Antique pencil and faded watercolor wash portrait titled "L'Amazon" (French, translates "horsewoman") by Constantin Guys (French, circa 1860. Artwork professionally restored. Titled on verso with 1952 Drouat French auction reference and catalog number. Piece is presented in a distressed wood frame with antique glass. New, double cut archival mats. Image size, 7"H x 3.75W; overall, 17.5"H x 13.63"W.

Guys was born in Vlissingen. Baudelaire called him the "painter of modern life," and wrote a long essay on Guys in which he extensively praised his works, under the pseudonym "Monsieur G". Robert de Montesquiou wrote a review of Guys that acknowledged Baudelaire's essay, compared Guys favorably to Whistler, and emphasized his portrayal of details of women's clothing, and horse carriages. His subjects were Second French Empire life. In the Dutch novel "Au pair" by W. F. Hermans, one of the main characters is fascinated by Constantin Guys. Guys died in Paris, aged 90. less