Henri de Groux, The Harpist, 1866, Paper

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Pencil and charcoal drawing on paper realized in the earl 20th Century as preparatory drawing for the decorations at Théatre … Read more Pencil and charcoal drawing on paper realized in the earl 20th Century as preparatory drawing for the decorations at Théatre de l'Opéra de Marseille. Not signed, matted. Very good condition. A superb preparatory drawing by Henri de Groux, this large-scale figure study represents a draped female figure holding a lyre, conceived in a noble and solemn pose. The composition exemplifies de Groux’s deeply expressive draftsmanship and his fascination with allegorical and spiritual subjects. This drawing is believed to be a preparatory study for one of the decorative panels commissioned for the Théâtre de l’Opéra in Marseille, where the artist executed a series of allegorical works celebrating the arts. The strong chiaroscuro, combined with the fluid yet disciplined line, demonstrates de Groux’s command of monumental form — qualities inherited from his admiration for Michelangelo and the Symbolist movement. Executed in broad, confident strokes of charcoal and pencil, the figure’s idealized features and flowing drapery embody the artist’s attempt to reconcile classical grandeur with modern psychological intensity. The subject — a muse-like woman with a lyre — is emblematic of the artist’s recurring theme of the divine and the heroic in art, recurring throughout his late career. Condition: Excellent overall condition; sheet mounted on support; minor creases and marginal toning consistent with age. A comparable study by Henri de Groux for the same decorative cycle is preserved in the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Marseille. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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