Figure With Jack O Lantern Appraisal

Woodcut Print by Jean Charlot: Figure with Jack-o'-Lantern

This item is a framed woodcut print by Jean Charlot, depicting a figure, likely a man, holding or creating a jack-o'-lantern. The print features a stark two-tone color scheme, primarily dark brown or black against a lighter, warm brown or beige background, which is characteristic of woodcut printing where the raised areas of the block receive ink and the carved-out areas remain unprinted, revealing the paper or substrate beneath. The style is distinctly Modernist, with simplified, angular forms and bold outlines. The figure's face is rendered with minimal lines, indicating eyes, nose, and mouth. The hands are large and stylized, contributing to the graphic quality of the image. The jack-o'-lantern appears to be in the process of being carved, with triangular eyes and jagged mouth shapes. Textural elements are visible, particularly on what appears to be the figure's collar or shoulder, adding a subtle pattern. The print exhibits an overall good visible condition, though there might be some minor dust beneath the glass or slight inconsistencies in the print due to the nature of the medium. There are no obvious tears, creases, or significant discoloration. The print is housed under glass within a simple, light-colored frame, likely wood, with a linen-textured mat. A signature 'Jean Charlot' is visible in pencil on the bottom right corner of the print, confirming artist attribution. The print also shows what appears to be a numerical notation 'Ti' or 'T1' in the bottom left, typically indicating a title or edition number. The visible craftsmanship suggests a professional print, and the distinct artistic style places it within the 20th century, likely mid-century, given Jean Charlot's active period.