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Set of Four Midcentury Fashion Illustrations in the Style of Vogue, c. 1940s–50s
$4,750per set
£3,606.11per set
€4,157.26per set
CA$6,719.53per set
A$7,234.19per set
CHF 3,874.05per set
MX$87,169.36per set
NOK 48,879.74per set
SEK 44,732.86per set
DKK 31,064.69per set
About the Item
A glamorous set of four original midcentury fashion illustrations, exquisitely rendered in ink, watercolor, wash, and gouache on board. Likely intended for editorial or haute couture presentation, each composition captures the stylized elegance and postwar sophistication characteristic of the golden age of fashion illustration.
The female figures are depicted in theatrical poses with high-fashion detailing—sequined gowns, fur muffs, feathered millinery, and voluminous skirts—all enhanced by metallic and opaque highlights. Subtle handwritten annotations suggest design intent, lending insight into the working process of a fashion illustrator. While unsigned, the execution and style evoke the refined visual language of publications such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar during the 1940s and 1950s.
Each sheet is floated within a custom-cut mat and presented in a black and gilt-edged wood frame under glass, ready to hang.
Dimensions:
(Sight): 17.5" H x 12.75" W
(Framed): 25" H x 20" W
Condition:
Good overall condition with age-appropriate patina, including faint creases, minor spotting, and light toning to paper. One frame with minor surface loss (see detail).
Provenance:
A Private Collection: 10 East 70th Street, New York City.
Style Comparison:
René Gruau (4 February 1909 – 31 March 2004), Rimini, Italy
Graceful Elongation: Like Gruau’s work, these figures are highly stylized, with elongated limbs and dramatic postures.
Use of Ink
Wash: The combination of black ink, watercolor wash, and gouache highlights is characteristic of Gruau’s bold yet fluid technique.
Fashion Drama: The exaggerated accessories (such as the feathered hats and fur muffs), opulent gowns, and striking red accents evoke the theatricality and elegance that defined his illustrations for Dior, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and L’Officiel.
Graphic Simplicity with Detail: There is a confident economy of line offset by detailed flourishes—like sequin embellishments and subtle patterning—hallmarks of Gruau’s style.
- Similar to:René Gruau (Illustrator)
- Dimensions:Height: 25 in (63.5 cm)Width: 20 in (50.8 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 4
- Style:Hollywood Regency (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1940 s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading.
- Seller Location:Morristown, NJ
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5990245689452
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Morristown, NJ
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