Description
Artist: Erte
Title: Triumph of the Courtesan
Medium: Embossed Serigraph
Edition: Roman Numeral Edition of 45
Image Size: 29.75" x 35.75"
Frame Size: 35.75" x 43.25"
Year: 1987
Inscription: Signed and numbered by the artist in pencil
Triumph of the Courtesan exemplifies Erte's mastery of Art Deco design and his unparalleled ability to craft imagery that is both elegant and symbolic. Created in 1987, this work is an embossed serigraph from an exclusive Roman Numeral Edition of 45. Signed and numbered by the artist in pencil, it stands out as one of Erte's rare and highly sought-after limited edition embossed serigraphs.
The artwork features a commanding composition, with bold geometric shapes framing the central figure of the courtesan. A vivid red triangular background converges dramatically with black panels, accentuated by radiating golden lines. At the pinnacle of the composition, the courtesan is depicted as both a symbol of power and refinement, adorned in intricate garments with shimmering gold accents. Surrounding her is a dynamic plume of dotted patterns, evoking movement and vitality, while the figure's headdress adds a theatrical and exotic touch to her regal presence. The lower portion of the work showcases a meticulous array of repeating circular motifs, providing balance and symmetry while reinforcing Erte's signature decorative style.
The limited-edition status and technical complexity of Triumph of the Courtesan underscore its significance as a testament to Erte's ingenuity and dedication to his craft. With its striking composition and luxurious details, this piece encapsulates the timeless allure and sophistication for which Erte is celebrated.
About Erte
Erte, born Romain de Tirtoff on November 23, 1892, in St. Petersburg, Russia, was a renowned artist, designer, and illustrator celebrated for his iconic contributions to the Art Deco movement. The pseudonym "Erte" derives from the French pronunciation of his initials, "R.T." His work, characterized by its refined elegance, sensuality, and intricate detail, spans a variety of mediums, including fashion, costume design, illustration, and sculpture.
Born into an aristocratic family, Erte's early life was shaped by his privileged upbringing and exposure to the arts. His father, an admiral in the Imperial Russian Navy, envisioned a military career for him. However, Erte's passion for art and design prevailed, leading him to move to Paris in 1912 at the age of 19. There, he immersed himself in the vibrant cultural scene and began to develop his distinctive aesthetic.
Erte's breakthrough came in 1915 when he began his long association with the prestigious American magazine Harper's Bazaar. Over the next two decades, he created over 240 covers for the publication, each showcasing his signature style: graceful figures, flowing garments, and exquisite patterns. These illustrations became synonymous with the glamour and sophistication of the Art Deco era and solidified his reputation as a leading artist of his time.
Beyond his work in illustration, Erte made significant contributions to the worlds of fashion and theater. He designed costumes and stage sets for prominent productions, including the Folies Bergère, the Ziegfeld Follies, and the Parisian opera. His creations were celebrated for their opulence, theatricality, and inventive use of materials. His designs for Hollywood films, such as Ben-Hur (1925) and The Mystic (1925), further showcased his versatility and creativity.
Erte's artistic legacy is deeply tied to his mastery of line, form, and color. His works often depict elongated figures adorned with luxurious fabrics, feathers, and jewels, exuding a timeless sense of elegance and fantasy. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as ancient Egyptian art, Japanese prints, and the Ballets Russes, he blended traditional motifs with modern sensibilities, creating a unique and enduring visual language.
Despite the decline of Art Deco's popularity after World War II, Erte experienced a resurgence of recognition in the 1960s and 1970s, as collectors and institutions rediscovered his work. He expanded his repertoire to include limited-edition serigraphs, bronze sculptures, and lithographs, introducing his artistry to a new generation of admirers. Major retrospectives, such as the 1967 exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, cemented his place in art history.
Erte continued to work prolifically well into his 90s, maintaining his passion for creativity and innovation. He passed away on April 21, 1990, in Paris, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Known as the "Father of Art Deco," Erte remains a symbol of beauty, elegance, and the timeless allure of the Art Deco movement.