Paul César Helleu Portrait Print in Gilt Frame

This item is a large-format portrait print, attributed to or inspired by the French artist Paul César Helleu (1859–1927), a central figure in the Belle Époque. The artwork depicts a woman, likely a member of the social elite, in an elegant full-length pose typical of Helleu's drypoint etchings. The style is characterized by long, fluid lines and a sophisticated sense of Parisian fashion, featuring a wide-brimmed hat and a slim-fitting coat or gown. The color palette is monochromatic or sepia-toned, rendered on paper that appears to have aged to a warm, off-white or light gray hue. It is housed in a substantial wooden frame with a prominent gold-gilt finish, featuring simple vertical fluting or molding. The construction suggests a mid-20th-century presentation of an earlier style. Physically, the image shows signs of age-related foxing and light toning across the paper surface. The frame exhibits minor surface wear and small chips in the gilding, consistent with its age. This piece serves as a classic example of turn-of-the-century portraiture, emphasizing the 'Parisienne' aesthetic of the early 1900s. The refinement of the subject's posture and the minimalist treatment of the background highlights the high craftsmanship of the original artist's technique.