Cassigneul Jean-Pierre, Devant la mer, 1993

“

I was reminded of the hieratic and equally mysterious Egyptian female silhouettes, in profile, seen on the treasures taken from the tomb of Tout Ankh Amon”[1]

Jean-Pierre Cassigneul is renowned for his portraits of women, characterized by graceful poses, elongated silhouettes and delicately drawn faces. The detail of the richly decorated garments reflects the elegance of women’s fashion in his day.

This composition shows a young woman in a black dress adorned with red roses and wearing an imposing hat, blending into a seascape. Her pleated eyes, highlighted by green blush, recall the distinctive features of Cassigneul’s characters. Recurring hats, dresses and jewelry define his imaginary models. While the theme of women remains constant, the landscapes in the background, often coastal or gardens, vary with the seasons and moods.

[1] Jean François Josselin, Cassigneul Lithographe et Graveur, Paris, 1989