Willy Sluiter, Primula Veris, 1920s, Lithograph on Paper

Details

Description

1920s Portrait “Primula Veris” – Lithograph by Willy Sluiter for Haagsche Post

Description: Striking portrait of a young woman titled … Read more 1920s Portrait “Primula Veris” – Lithograph by Willy Sluiter for Haagsche Post

Description: Striking portrait of a young woman titled Primula Veris, drawn by renowned Dutch artist Willy Sluiter and published as a color lithograph for the Haagsche Post winter supplement.

Dated 1920, this fashionable and confident figure exemplifies the elegance and modernity of early 20th-century Dutch portrait illustration. The woman is shown seated, dressed in a soft tan robe-like jacket over a white blouse with a blue checkered skirt, accented by a blue cap and a yellow primrose pinned to her chest. She holds another primrose delicately in her hand, referencing the Latin title “Primula Veris,” or “spring primrose”—a symbol of renewal and youth. The background is rendered in a warm beige tone, allowing the subject’s poised expression and muted color palette to stand out.

Willy Sluiter (1873–1949) was a celebrated Dutch painter, illustrator, and poster designer. He was particularly known for capturing modern life and fashionable figures in a spirited and elegant style. His portraits often appeared in Dutch newspapers and magazines, such as Haagsche Post, and he was also known for his high-society commissions and maritime scenes. Sluiter’s signature appears at the lower right of the image, along with the date “1920.”

This lithograph was produced by L. van Leer & Co., Amsterdam, a reputable printer of fine illustrations and art supplements in the early 20th century. It forms part of the Haagsche Post’s high-quality collectible portrait series, published annually during the holiday season. Primula Veris makes a captivating decorative piece, ideal for collectors of Dutch illustration, Art Deco portraiture, or fashion-themed works from the interwar period.

Condition report: Good to very good condition. Slight edge wear and minor handling creases near the upper corners. Soft even toning overall. Colors remain clear and vivid, especially the yellows and blues.

Framing tips: A mid-tone wood or soft gold frame paired with a cream or pale yellow mat would highlight the warm tones and floral accent. Consider using UV-protective glass to preserve the delicate lithographic detail.

Technique: Lithograph Maker: Willy Sluiter, The Netherlands Publisher: L. van Leer & Co., Amsterdam, for Haagsche Post, 1920 See less