Belli, Homage to Agnes Sorel, 1970s, Oil on Canvas

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An unknown artist (signed in the lower right, likely illegibly "Belli" or something similar) created this work as an exceptionally … Read more An unknown artist (signed in the lower right, likely illegibly "Belli" or something similar) created this work as an exceptionally fascinating and highly abstract homage to the historical figure Agnes Sorel (1422-1450). Executed in the lithographic technique and marked "E.A." (Épreuve d'Artiste) as an exclusive artist's proof in the lower left, the print measures approximately 68 x 48.5 cm on a full sheet size of approximately 76 x 57 cm. The dynamic image is dominated by a stylized female profile in the center, constructed from countless fine, scratch-like lines. The striking, highly textured surface and the muted color palette of ochre, brown, and subtle reds lend the portrait an archaic aesthetic, almost reminiscent of weathered historical frescoes or old parchments. In the upper part of the image, the name of the historically significant mistress of the French King Charles VII, along with her dates of birth and death, is prominently integrated into the composition using expressive and bold typography. The surrounding, fragmentary lines of text and abstract geometric frames reinforce the mystical, enigmatic character of the print. This highly expressive artwork combines European history with a modern, abstract-surreal visual language and represents an extremely attractive and profound object for collectors of high-quality, limited-edition artist prints. See less