Artwork
Portrait of Juliette de Saint Cyr
Portrait of Juliette de Saint Cyr is an unspecified painting by Jean Dunand. It dates from 1925 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Jean Dunand, a Swiss-French artist associated with the Art Deco movement, created Portrait of Juliette de Saint Cyr in 1925.
Jean Dunand, a Swiss-French artist associated with the Art Deco movement, created Portrait of Juliette de Saint Cyr in 1925. This painting exemplifies the era's interest in depicting individuals while integrating elements of decorative art. The work showcases Dunand's versatile approach, reflecting his broader engagement with various artistic disciplines during a period characterized by refined craftsmanship and distinctive aesthetic principles.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait features Juliette de Saint Cyr, depicted with short, curly hair and a composed expression. She wears a striking red dress accented with a black collar and cuffs, complemented by a white bow at her wrist. The background is composed of layered, textured fabrics, creating a collaged effect with both light, woven patterns and darker, swirling designs. This interplay of bold yet muted colors, particularly the prominent red, highlights the sitter against a subtly complex setting.
Context
Active across painting, sculpture, metalwork, and interior design, Jean Dunand was a significant figure in the Art Deco period. His diverse practice aligned with the era's broader emphasis on integrating fine art with decorative arts, often employing bold geometric forms and meticulous craftsmanship. This portrait reflects the period's appreciation for both individual likenesses and the sophisticated material qualities characteristic of the Art Deco aesthetic.
History & Provenance
Portrait of Juliette de Saint Cyr is part of the permanent collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its acquisition places it among significant works representing the Art Deco period, allowing for study and appreciation of Jean Dunand's contribution to early 20th-century art and design.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Dunand (1877–1942) was a Swiss and French painter, sculptor, metal craftsman and interior designer during the Art Deco period. He was particularly known for his lacquered screens and other art objects.
