DISCUSSION:
Created in c. 1900 this original lithograph is from an only state out of an edition of 50 unsigned proofs. There is an MBM Cerange watermark visible within the sheet.

This very charming and intriguing portrait study of Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s young son, Claude, is shown here, deep in childish thought as he writes (or draws) with his quill pen. He is incredibly expressive, wearing a contemplative yet happy smile, slightly biting his index finger as if to be in deep concentration. Renoir has skillfully used background shading in order to centralize the focus and impact of his son within the composition. We can imagine the plane of the table depicted by the manner in which Claude’s elbows rest on the surface.

ABOUT THE FRAMING:
Conservation framed with museum quality archival materials, this work is float mounted on archival white linen in an ornate gold leaf Baroque inspired frame. The sculptural layers of floral motifs add a sense of grandeur and highlight the importance of this piece. The gold tone of the moulding accentuates and enhances the subtle and contrasting tones in this work. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching gold inner fillet, this work is set behind an archival Plexiglas® cover.