Charles GRAFFART (1893-1967)
NAME: Autoportrait au morion et à la bouteille translucide
ENGLISH NAME: Self-portrait with morion and translucent decanter
MEDIUM: Oil on canvas
SIGNATURE: Signed lower right
SIZE: 33.5 cm x 25 cm (13 x 9.75 inches)
ABOUT:
This is a RARE self-portrait painted in oil by Belgain artist, Charles Graffart who is primarily known for his sculptural works, glass work, as well as his contributions to the Art Deco movement. He is painted here behind one of his beautiful crystal decanters wearing a morion.
Morion – A High Crested Helmet with no visor
Artistic Career
Graffart's artistic career was closely associated with the renowned Val Saint-Lambert crystal manufactory in Belgium. He gained recognition for his innovative designs in glass and crystal, creating pieces that exemplified the elegance and geometric precision of the Art Deco style.
Signature Works
Graffart's oeuvre includes a variety of decorative objects, with vases being particularly notable:
- Art Deco vases featuring clear crystal with intricate cutting and colored overlays
- Sculptural pieces that showcased his ability to manipulate glass and create striking forms
One of his distinctive works is a vase described as "clear cut crystal doubled with pistachio," standing at 21.7 cm in height. This piece demonstrates Graffart's skill in combining different glass techniques to achieve complex visual effects.
Legacy and Market Presence
Although less widely known than some of his contemporaries, Graffart's work has maintained a presence in the art market:
- His pieces have been offered at auction multiple times
- Realized prices for his works vary, reflecting the range and quality of his output
- Collectors and enthusiasts of Art Deco glassware continue to seek out his creations
Charles Graffart's contributions to the field of decorative arts, particularly in glass design, have secured his place as a notable figure in early 20th-century Belgian art. His works serve as excellent examples of the Art Deco aesthetic, blending functionality with artistic expression.