Paul Swan (1883-1972) - Art Nouveau Portrait of Man, Signed (1911, Graphite on Paper)

Details

Description

Paul Swan (1883–1972)

Portrait of a Man (1911)

Graphite on paper | Signed

About This Work:

This intimate 1911 drawing … Read more Paul Swan (1883–1972)

Portrait of a Man (1911)

Graphite on paper | Signed

About This Work:

This intimate 1911 drawing bears the inscription "To Mr. Marlatt" in Swan's hand, suggesting a personal connection to the subject. The sensitive graphite rendering shows Swan's elegant draftsmanship, blending Symbolist refinement with Art Nouveau fluidity. The unusually crafted frame—with hand-carved wood and irregular joinery—may be the artist's own work. Signed and dated at the bottom in graphite.

Details:

- Medium: Graphite on laid paper

-Inscription: Dedicated "To Mr. Marlatt" in period graphite (lower margin)

- Dimensions: 17.25 × 15 in (43.8 × 38 cm) sight

- Frame: Period Art Nouveau carved wood, likely original

Condition:

- Minor corner tear (right edge)

- Adhesive marks at upper mat corners

- Unrestored patina throughout

Artist Biography:

Paul Swan was a multifaceted American artist—dancer, painter, sculptor, and actor—often called "the most beautiful man in the world" during his heyday. A true Renaissance figure of the early 20th century, he:

- Trained at the Art Institute of Chicago and Académie Julian in Paris

- Became famous for his interpretive Greek dances (performed until age 82)

- Created portraits of cultural figures like Isadora Duncan and Vaslav Nijinsky

- Lived openly gay in an intolerant era, making his work particularly significant in queer art history

- Exhibited at the 1913 Armory Show alongside modern masters See less