Balthus
BALTHUS "JEUNE FILLE ASSISE" LITHOGRAPH, 1994
Balthus (1908-2001) is one of the most esteemed painters of the 20th century.
Recognized for his dream-like compositions and taboo subject matter, Balthus uniquely blends elements of classicism with themes of modernity. His work is saturated with traditional technique, lending references to his moody, atmospheric scapes that are often imbued with Surrealist subtexts.
"Jeune Fille Assise," or "Young Girl, Seated," intimately portrays a figure reading on a lounger. Holding a page up to her face, the model sits comfortably with one leg propped up on the seat and her head lying against the back of the chair. Balthus' markmaking is soft, diffusing the image and creating a blurred, almost voyeuristic effect. This gently-rendered quiet moment captures the figure's innocence during this private and intimate moment of solitude.
Balthus is most infamously known for his infatuation with youth, portraying sexually suggestive (and in some cases, blatantly erotic) depictions of pre-pubescent girls throughout his oeuvre. The controversial theme was a point of contention throughout his career and beyond, with a recent petition calling for additional context to support his work on display at The Met.
In 2019, a new auction record of $19 million was established for Balthus' painting, "Therese sur une banquette" (1939). His work has been displayed internationally at the Tate, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Centre Pompidou, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
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"Jeune Fille Assise"
from Dessins
France, 1994
Lithograph on Arches paper
Signed "Balthus" and numbered "125/150" in pencil, lower edge of plate
From an edition of 150 with 15 APs
29.5"H 22"W (work)
39.25"H 31"W (framed)
Co-published by Éditions de la Tempête and Éditions Enrico Navarra, Paris
Printed at Atelier Desjobert, Paris
Very good condition
Note: This print is one of six from the portfolio Dessins, containing six lithographs in colours, on Arches paper, the full sheets loose, with a title page, text, and coliphon in a fabric-covered portfolio with embossed signature.
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