Drypoint Appraisal

Paul César Helleu Portrait Drypoint Etching

This item is a framed drypoint etching attributed to or in the style of the French artist Paul César Helleu (1859–1927). The artwork depicts a seated female figure in an elegant, impressionistic style characteristic of the Belle Époque period. The composition features a woman with elaborate hair, wearing a high-collared garment, rendered with loose, sketchy lines that convey a sense of motion and grace. This technique involves incising lines directly into a copper plate with a diamond-tipped needle, creating the soft, velvety 'burr' associated with Helleu's work. The piece is presented in a large rectangular frame with a wide neutral mat. The monochromatic palette consists of dark ink on an off-white or cream-toned paper. Regarding condition, the image shows some digital artifacts, but on the physical piece, one should look for light foxing, minor acid burn from the matting, or slight yellowing of the paper consistent with age. There appears to be a signature or mark in the lower right corner, which is frequently seen in Helleu's original works or authorized prints from the late 19th to early 20th century. The craftsmanship reflects the high-fashion portraiture popular in Parisian high society during this era.