French Surrealist Graphite Drawing Hybrid Creature Dated 1974 Attrib. Antoine Duc

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Description

An intriguing and highly imaginative surrealist graphite drawing dated 1974, depicting a fantastical hybrid creature composed of avian, human, and … Read more An intriguing and highly imaginative surrealist graphite drawing dated 1974, depicting a fantastical hybrid creature composed of avian, human, and biomechanical-inspired forms. Original drawing executed with remarkable precision and delicate tonal control, the composition merges feathered anatomy, dreamlike human faces, and architectural mechanical elements into a psychologically charged vision evocative of French visionary surrealism of the 1970s.

The work bears a strong stylistic and thematic relationship to drawings by French surrealist artist Antoine Duc (born 1932), whose graphite and mixed-media compositions from the early 1970s frequently explored hybrid creatures, metamorphic anatomy, and fantastical dream imagery. Antoine Duc was recognized for his “visionary imagination” and exhibited extensively in France beginning around 1970, including documented exhibitions during the same period this drawing was executed.

Comparable recorded works by Duc include surreal graphite compositions such as Le dénicheur, Animal surréaliste, Le tapir surréaliste, and other dreamlike figure studies dated between 1972–1974, many sharing similar monochromatic execution, biomorphic forms, and meticulous draftsmanship.

While not formally authenticated, the present drawing’s signature “Duc 74,” French surrealist sensibility, and highly refined graphite technique strongly suggest an association with Antoine Duc and the broader postwar French surrealist revival.

Presented in an elegant faux bamboo style gilt frame with complementary textured matting, the work possesses exceptional decorative presence and collector appeal. An evocative and intellectually engaging piece ideal for sophisticated modern, surrealist, or eclectic interiors.

Signed and dated lower right: “Duc 74.”

Dimensions:
25 1/2" High x 33 5/8" Wide x 1" Deep

Attributed to Antoine Duc (French, b. 1932)
Surrealist Artist, most active similar works created during 1970–1979

Materials and Techniques:
Graphite on Paper, Hand-Drawn, Framed, Giltwood Frame See less