Pierre Auguste Renoir 'Pierre Renoir': One of the greatest masters of French Impressionism, Pierre-Auguste Renoir created slightly over fifty original etchings or lithographs during his life. His first original graphic work of art was created in 1890 and, during the following ten years, he was encouraged to produce more etchings and lithographs by his friends, such as the etcher, Roux-Champion, and the publisher, Ambrose Vollard. The themes of Renoir's original prints are very much akin to those of his paintings; scenes of people he admired, children, bathers, nudes -- all examined in the ever changing light of the moment. The subject of Le Chapeau Epingle ('The Pinned Hat') was depicted by him in six different prints, three etchings and three lithographs. Renoir treated this scene of two young girls side by side, with one of them pinning on the others hat, in a series of variations at this time. His models are known to have been Julie Manet, the daughter of Berthe Morisot and niece of Eduard Manet, and her cousin, Paulette Gobillard. The scene originated from a study Pierre Renoir made while on holiday on the coast of Northern France with Berthe Morisot and her family. Julie Manet was a favorite model for Renoir and on this occasion he drew her on the beach with her cousin who was adjusting the pin on her large sun hat. This impression of Le Chapeau Epingle is much more compelling and complex than the earlier two versions. This fine old French etching was printed in 1921 in 'Renoir et ses Amis' by Georges Riviere, Paris. Printed upon light cream, laid paper and signed "Renoir" in the plate to the lower left. A superb, delicately printed impression and in excellent condition throughout. Even in areas like under the brim of the hat or the hair, rich detail is visible and nothing is lost to over-inking. This impression of Le Chapeau Epingle represents an important example of the famous Impressionist art of Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
The etching measures, sight in the frame, 11.5cm x 8.5cm. The etching is housed in a gilt wood and matted frame and is protected by glass. The frame measures 40cm x 35.5cm as per below:
This etching was purchased in 1999 from Galerie Michael, Rodeo Drive, Beverley Hills, California, at their Renoir Exhibition that year. They vouch for its authenticity.
