Lma Appraisal

Centenaire de la Découverte de la Pile Voltaïque - Como 1900 October (Les Maîtres de l’Affiche Plate 196)

This item is a framed lithographic print titled 'Centenaire de la Découverte de la Pile Voltaïque - Como 1900 October,' which is plate 196 from the renowned 'Les Maîtres de l’Affiche' series. The print is housed under glass within a decorative, deeply carved gold-toned frame, likely made of wood, exhibiting ornate floral and foliate motifs. The frame appears to be in very good condition with minimal visible wear, suggesting good care or recent framing. The print itself is presented within a creamy-white mat, providing a clean border between the artwork and the frame. The artwork features an Art Nouveau aesthetic, characterized by flowing lines and nature-inspired ornamentation. Two female figures are depicted; one in a terracotta-red dress with an olive green underskirt or drape is seated and appears to be interacting with a scientific apparatus or a diagram related to electricity, possibly a voltaic pile, which is central to the print’s theme. Another figure, partially obscured behind the first, wears a green garment and observes. The background and borders are richly decorated with stylized organic forms. The dominant colors include muted reds, greens, and browns, set against a sepia-toned or light brown background for the main image, with creamy-white elements in the text area. The print commemorates the centenary of the discovery of the voltaic pile, an event held in Como, October 1900, and mentions an 'Exposition Internationale d'Électricité' and 'Congrès International des Electriciens'. The artist's signature, though difficult to discern fully from the image, appears to be 'G. Roesler, Pr.' printed at the bottom. The condition of the print appears excellent, with no visible tears, significant discoloration, or foxing through the glass, indicative of its preservation within the frame. The entire composition emanates a sense of historical importance combined with artistic elegance typical of the Art Nouveau period, estimated to be from around 1900, given the event commemorated and the publication date of the 'Les Maîtres de l’Affiche' series.