1920s Original “Decameron Nights” Silent Film Illustration Artwork, Framed

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Description

Title: 1920s Original “Decameron Nights” Silent Film Illustration Artwork, Framed

Description

A remarkable and highly detailed original mixed-media illustration associated … Read more Title: 1920s Original “Decameron Nights” Silent Film Illustration Artwork, Framed

Description

A remarkable and highly detailed original mixed-media illustration associated with Herbert Wilcox’s lavish 1924 British-German silent production Decameron Nights (Dekameron-Nächte), starring Lionel Barrymore.

Executed in watercolor/gouache and ink or related mixed media on illustration board, the composition surrounds a dramatic central scene with exceptionally intricate vignettes of medieval pageantry, figures, dancers and combat. Portions are rendered with such precision that they have an almost photographic appearance.

Decameron Nights was produced in Germany by Graham-Wilcox Productions in association with the legendary Berlin studio Universum-Film AG (UFA) and producers Herbert Wilcox and Erich Pommer. Lionel Barrymore appeared as Prince Saladin.

Research has identified reproduced imagery corresponding to this composition and associated with the film, suggesting that this may have originated as period promotional, presentation, publication or advertising artwork. Its exact original studio function has not yet been documented, and the artist remains unidentified.

The artwork is presented in a handsome later shadowbox-style frame with a gold-toned inner surround.

Visible artwork: approximately 19.25” W × 13.25” H
Overall: approximately 23.25” W × 17.25” H

Fascinating antique original theatrical illustration or design, apparently executed in watercolor and opaque watercolor/gouache on artist’s board.

This unusually detailed composition features numerous elaborately costumed figures arranged among architectural and theatrical settings, including a prominent central inset scene surrounded by additional figures and scenery. The work has the appearance of a finished illustration, theatrical/opera design, or related presentation artwork rather than a conventional decorative watercolor.

The precise subject and artist have not been identified. No visible signature has been located.

Presented beneath glass in an ornate metallic-finish frame with a recessed/shadowbox-style presentation.

Approximate dimensions:
Overall framed: 23.25” wide × 17.25” high
Visible artwork: 19.25” wide × 13.25” high

Condition: Antique condition with age-related wear, discoloration and scattered surface imperfections. There is a noticeable diagonal crack/split in the artist’s board at the lower-right corner, as clearly shown in the photographs. Frame and surrounding fabric liner show age-related wear and spotting. Please examine all photographs closely as they form an important part of the condition description.

A wonderfully unusual piece of antique illustration art with particularly strong theatrical, operatic and costume imagery. Further research may reveal the specific production, literary source, or illustrator represented. See less