Soleil et lune II (Sun and Moon II), 1959: Georges Braque
A World Imagined: Original Prints & Ceramics by Picasso, Chagall, Miró & Braque
Colour lithograph by Georges Braque titled Soleil et lune II (1959), featuring stylised bird forms with abstract sun and moon motifs in muted blue, ochre, cream and black
Georges Braque (1882–1963)
Soleil et lune II (Sun and Moon II), 1959
Original colour lithograph
Published by Maeght Éditeur, Paris
Printed by Mourlot, Paris (1959)
Catalogue raisonné: Dora Vallier, Georges Braque: Catalogue de l'œuvre gravé, no. 1035.
Created in 1959 for Contremots, a deluxe publication by Georges Charbonnier issued by Maeght Éditeur, Soleil et lune II was printed by Atelier Mourlot from the original lithographic stones in 1959, and was created under Braque's supervision rather than as a later reproduction. The reverse retains its original printed publication text, an authentic feature preserved from its original publication
As the companion to Soleil et lune I, this lithograph demonstrates Braque's remarkable ability to express complex ideas through elegant simplicity. The symbolic forms of the sun and moon are reduced to their essentials, creating a composition that conveys harmony, rhythm and quiet contemplation. The pair exemplifies the poetic restraint that characterises Braque's late graphic work.
Dora Vallier records that Braque remained personally involved throughout the production of his prints, supervising the printers, correcting proofs and approving each edition before publication. This close collaboration ensured that every impression reflected the artist's own intentions and explains why his original prints occupy such an important place within his œuvre.
Recorded as catalogue number 1035 in Vallier's catalogue raisonné, Soleil et lune II stands alongside its companion as an exceptional example of Braque's mature printmaking and of the outstanding standards achieved by Maeght Éditeur and Atelier Mourlot.
Curatorial note: These works are reproduced horizontally in the Vallier catalogue raisonné. For this exhibition they have been presented vertically, reflecting the orientation indicated by the artist's monogram and the original publication text on the reverse.
Soleil et lune I and Soleil et lune II are available as a pair, priced at $3,700 - please enquire.
Framed with Conservation Mat, Acid-free Foamboard and UV70 Art Glass
Size 32cm x 46cm (Framed)
$1,950