GEORGES DE FEURE (1868-1943) LES MONTMARTROISES. 1893. 12 1/2x31 1/2 inches, 31 3/4x80 cm. Edw. Ancourt, Paris. Condition B+: repaired tears and restoration at edges, some affecting image; creases and abrasions in margins and image. This intriguing interior cabaret scene, in which the graphics and the text are symmetrically organized on either side of the central figure, is in an unusual horizontal format. The image depicts well-heeled patrons who have turned out to listen to Jean Goudezki sing and recite poetry about the people of Montmartre. The two seated ladies with their long black gloves and elaborate hats are the kind of mysterious women that populate many of de Feure's works. Jean Goudezki was really Edouard Dewey, a barrister who adopted an exotic Russian name. He was an important contributor to Chat Noir magazine. This poster advertises a book of the songs he wrote (and performed) in the Chat Noir cabaret. DFP-II 344, Maindron p. 64, Wine Spectator 85, De Feure p. 26, Reims 616.
