MICHEL SIMONIDY (1870-1933) THE EQUITABLE LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY. Calendar with four sheets. 1902. Each approximately 9x16 inches, 23x41 cm. M. de Brunoff & Co., Paris. Conditions vary, generally B+: staining, creases and abrasions in margins and image. Paper. The Equitable Life Insurance Company printed calendars (in both French and English) to promote their brand. Much like the Czech artist Ludek Marold, who designed a calendar for the same company in 1898 (see Swann auction #2133 lot 177). Simonidy also provides an allegory of the four seasons. These images are lush and colorful and are surrounded by a decorative Art Nouveau border. Romanian-born Simonidy was active as a painter and a poster artist in Paris.
