This is a superb original signed limited edition color etching by internationally acclaimed artist MARIE LAURENCIN (French, 1883 -1956), dating from 1925.

Born on 31 October 1883 in Paris, the young Marie Laurencin was sent to Sèvres in 1901 by her mother, where she became familiar with porcelain painting. Her education continued at a school in Paris, followed by the academy Humbert, where she became acquainted with George Braque. Being friends with the latter, she soon met Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire, who supported her from this time on and integrated her into the discussions about art theory, which would soon lead to cubism. Laurencin's own creative work, however, stays untouched by theoretical demands like this; it shows mainly lyrical motifs like graceful, dreamy young girls in pastel coloring and soft shading. By this color-sensitive inventiveness repetitions of form and motif are varied. A stylistic influence from Persian miniature painting and the art of rococo can be made out in the works of Laurencin. In 1907 the artist made her debut at the Salon des Indépendants, followed by a major exhibition at Barbazanges in 1912 and at P. Rosenberg in 1920. From 1924 on Laurencin also worked on designing stage sets. She did the set for Diaghilev's "Ballet Russe" and, in 1928, for the "Comédie Francaise". Beyond that she illustrated books, e.g. André Gide's "La Tentative Amoureuse" and Lewis Caroll's "Alice in Wonderland".

This rare original color etching is entitled "Jeune fille au balcon" (Marchesseau 84), 2^nd state, 1925, and is signed in pencil by the artist on the front lower right "Marie Laurencin". It measures 6" x 8 ¼" (plate), 7 ½" x 10" (sight) and is matted and framed in a custom made Jerry Solomon frame for a total size of 13 ½" x 16 ¾" (there is wear to the frame). It is in apparent excellent condition (it has not been examined out of the frame). CATALOGUE REFERENCE: Catalogue Raisonné de l'§uvre grave de Marie Laurencin, Daniel Marchesseau, #84, pgs. 24, 135. Authenticity is GUARANTEED. Shipping is $35.00 within the US only, please email for international shipping rates. Please view my other auctions and eBay store for additional museum quality fine art and collectibles, including a rare Marie Laurencin signed color lithograph.