Artwork
Noël (Holiday Card)
Noël (Holiday Card) is a print by George Auriol. It dates from 1912 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
The text at the top says "Les meilleurs souhaits de Mme George Auriol," meaning "Best wishes from Mrs.
This holiday card shows a woman in a green coat handing out flowers to a child in a sled. An elephant with a trunk curled up stands nearby, and a boat floats in the background. The flowers are big and soft-looking, with pink and white petals. The whole scene feels light and playful, like a dream.
The artist signed it "Noël 1912" and wrote "Paris" at the bottom, along with an address. The text at the top says "Les meilleurs souhaits de Mme George Auriol," meaning "Best wishes from Mrs. George Auriol."
If you like this whimsical style, check out George Auriol (French, 1863–1938) for more playful art.
Overview
Noël (Holiday Card) is a 1912 print by French artist George Auriol, now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The card depicts a serene, dreamlike scene: a woman in a green coat distributes large, soft pink-and-white flowers to a child in a sled, accompanied by an elephant with a curled trunk and a distant boat. The imagery conveys a sense of light-hearted festivity.
Technique & Style
Characterized by whimsical elements and soft, playful visuals, the print reflects Auriol's distinctive approach to capturing lighthearted, imaginative scenes.
History & Provenance
Created in 1912 and signed 'Noël 1912' by the artist, with 'Paris' and an address noted. It bears a greeting from 'Mme George Auriol,' indicating its original purpose as a personal holiday card.
Context
Emerging from Auriol's broader body of work known for playful aesthetics, this piece aligns with early 20th-century artistic explorations of fantasy and simplicity in graphic design and printmaking.
Legacy
While specific impact on broader art movements is not prominently documented, 'Noël' remains a charming example of Auriol's style, appealing to those interested in whimsical early 20th-century French printmaking.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Auriol, born Jean-Georges Huyot (26 April 1863) – February 1938, Paris), was a French poet, songwriter, graphic designer, type designer, and Art Nouveau artist.
