Louis Icart, Slightly Swollen Areola from The Life of Breasts, Nude, Original Etching & Aquatint, 1945

Details

Description

Louis icart (1888 - 1950)

slightly swollen areola (aréole renflée légèrement)
from "the life of breasts"

original colour etching and … Read more Louis icart (1888 - 1950)

slightly swollen areola (aréole renflée légèrement)
from "the life of breasts"

original colour etching and aquatint
size: 28 x 23 cm
year: 1945
original and only edition
total edition of 200
numbered 129 in the edition page
(very rare)

excellent condition

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the portfolio

"la vie des seins" (the life of breasts) is an exquisite and rare illustrated portfolio published in paris in 1945.
this work stands as a fascinating example of late art deco elegance, created during a pivotal moment in french history.
while the text is credited to "docteur jacobus", the true soul of the volume lies in the mastery of its illustrator, louis icart (1888–1950).

icart, the preeminent artist of parisian "boudoir" style, provided fifteen original color etchings for the suite, including five impressive double-page spreads. The portfolio is presented as a "pseudo-medical" or satirical treatise, exploring the aesthetic and anatomical varieties of the female form with titles like "virgin breasts" or "granular areola." despite the clinical-sounding theme, icart’s artistic touch remains delicate, sophisticated, and ethereal.

his use of drypoint and aquatint captures the "parisian eve" with the lightness and romanticism that made him a global icon of the 1920s and 30s. Printed in a very limited edition of 200 copies, la vie des seins is highly sought after by collectors today. It represents a mature stage of icart’s career, blending his signature erotic charm with the refined craftsmanship of mid-century french editions.

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this very artwork

from the text by dr. Jacobus:

"slightly swollen areola

this conformation is more commonly found among brunettes. In general, the skin is slightly tanned or even deeply coloured. This means, madame, that you will have frequent motherhoods—but easy births, especially if you have a granular areola. This case offers a peculiarity: under the pressure of a finger, the swelling indents, then springs forward again, as if by the action of a spring.

as curious as eve, you have an irresistible tendency to ask questions. You must be wary of the advice given to you, which is too often in the interest of those giving it.

this conformation was that of the daughters of mme b., whom i knew very well in the nude, and who—all four of them—had rich and powerful protectors, handsome fellows with noble hearts, two of whom, moreover, became their husbands.

often this shape of the breast proves a passionate and unfaithful nature—especially if hairs appear around the nipple.

do a few beauty marks dot the purity of your charms? then have no worry: you will be adored, defended, and served like an idol until the end of your days."

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this listing is for the original etching and aquatint by louis icart. The colophon and edition page are pictured as proof of authenticity; high-resolution scans and a certificate of authenticity can be provided to the buyer upon request. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
from
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