Art Nouveau four-panel painted screen, Czech Republic

Notes

Mucha was a Czech painter, illustrator and decorative artist who became one of the most influential figures of the Art Nouveau style at the turn of the 20th century.

These hand-painted panels feature female figures similar to those celebrated in his posters of the 1890s. The flowing drapery, stylised female figures and floral backgrounds are characteristic of his highly influential Art Nouveau style.

He was born in Inacice in the Czech Republic, then part of the Austrian Empire. After struggling to gain admission to art academies, he started working as a theatrical scene painter. His career changed dramatically in1894 when he created a poster for the famous actress Sarah Bernhardt for the play Gismonda. This poster, with an elegant female figure with flowing hair became instantly popular and defined the emerging Art Nouveau style.

Provenance

Current owner inherited from her grandmother Johanna Magdalena van Wouw, daughter of renowned South African sculptor Anton van Wouw.