D'APRÈS ALPHONSE MUCHA (1860-1939) [TÊTES BYZANTINES.] Two decorative metal plates. Circa 1900.
Each with a diameter of 16 inches, 40 1/2 cm.
Condition varies, generally B+ / A-: minor chipping of pigment around edges; minor abrasions in image. Framed.
These iconic decorative images were instant best sellers for Champenois, and they galvanized this success by printing different variants. Given their circular format and ornate detailing, using the design for decorative plates was too obvious not to be done. For this, Mucha added a double ornamental border to contain the women's hair. The finished plates were offered through ads in La Plume and Cocorico for 25 Francs. Mucha was certainly satisfied with the result, as "he had one pair hanging in his studio at rue Du Val-de-Grâce and later in New York and Zbiroh" (Grand Palais, notes for 39-40). rare. We have found no other copies at auction. Mucha Grand Palais 39 & 40, Darmstadt p. 123, Mucha / Henderson 35 & 36 (var), Spirit of Art Nouveau 48 (var).