Untitled (Leisure Hours, Delhi)
Signed “Mortimer Menpes imp” lower right
Circa 1914-15
Etching, drypoint, plate tone on chine collè on paper
Print size: 6.25 x 11.75 in (16 x 29.7 cm)
Sheet size: 8 x 13.5 in (20 x 34.5 cm)
With Mount: 14.25 x 22.5 in (36 x 56.8 cm)
Mortimer Menpes (1855–1938)
Australian-born British artist Mortimer Menpes (1855–1938) gained great recognition for his proficiency in etching, drypoint, and chine-collé techniques on paper. Menpes produced over 700 works in these mediums, often combining his technical mastery with a unique aesthetic sensitivity. His etchings and drypoints are notable for their fine lines, rich textures, and intricate details, often enhanced by plate tone to create depth and atmosphere. These works demonstrated his mastery of detailed printmaking and his experimentation with textures and tones.
Menpes was influenced by James McNeill Whistler, with whom he collaborated early in his career. His work often reflected a blend of Whistler's techniques and his own interpretations. Following his travels to Japan, where he drew inspiration from Japanese art and culture.
Menpes frequently printed his works himself, ensuring the highest quality in execution, and often utilized chine-collé for its ability to enhance the subtleties of texture and color.
Menpes experienced a significant stylistic shift in his later career. The Delhi Durbar documentation came later, in 1903, during the peak of Menpes's career as an illustrator and artist. This project marked a transition toward large-scale, color-illustrated publications that showcased his abilities as a documentarian of grandeur and cultural diversity.
Thus, Menpes's chine-collé works predate his Delhi Durbar illustrations, reflecting his evolving artistic priorities—from intimate, intricate prints to expansive cultural records.
This lot will be shipped unframed.
NON-EXPORTABLE
This lot will be shipped in "as is" condition. For further details, please refer to the images of individual lots as reference for the condition.