Le Houx (The Holly)

Large lithograph on paper, mounted on a calendar enhanced with golden ink.

In fair/good condition, with some minor defects and scratches on the image. Some soft stains and some tiny tears at the edges, with some notable folds/tears on the top left & bottom right corners. Two small alterations in the upper margin. Image very clean otherwise, with bright and vivid colors. Backed on linen.

Printed by B. Sirven Imp. Edit., Paris.

This artwork by Jane Atché is a striking example of the Art Nouveau style, which flourished between 1890 and 1910. Atché, a French artist, was known for her distinct interpretation of this aesthetic.

The piece immediately draws attention to the central figure, a woman who embodies the Art Nouveau ideal of an elegant, stylized form. Her pose is natural yet graceful, with a subtle twist to her body that suggests movement. The use of golden ink not only adds a touch of luxury but also highlights key elements, such as the woman's hair and the intricate patterns on her clothing, which show meticulous attention to detail.

The color palette is soft, with pastel hues that lend a dreamy quality to the image. The background landscape, while muted, gives depth to the composition, and the holly and berries in the foreground are symbolically rich, possibly suggesting winter or a form of resilience as these plants thrive in colder seasons.

The border decoration is typical of Art Nouveau, with its flowing lines and organic shapes such as the stylized flowers and leaves. This framing device serves to integrate the image with the decorative arts, a hallmark of the movement.

The integration of the calendar within the artwork is also notable. It serves a practical function while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the piece. The choice to mount the lithograph on a calendar suggests the artwork was designed with utility in mind, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Overall, this lithograph showcases Atché's skill in combining functionality with beauty, a core principle of the Art Nouveau movement. The piece is not just a visual pleasure but also a reflection of the era's cultural movements toward integrating art into everyday life.