The Travellers: Victor Brauner Portrait

As a continuation of The Travellers, a series where the same piece of furniture or artwork is shown used in different locations, this edition features a provocative portrait by Romanian-born Victor Brauner, 1903-1966.  Although associated with the Surrealists for much of his career, The Devoted Classicist guesses that this work was executed after his formal break with that group in 1948.  The artist's work always featured symbolism and color, but unfortunately nothing specific can be related about this particular work.

In this Dining Room in the Seventh Arrondissement of Paris decorated by Alberto Pinto, the portrait is installed opposite the entrance to the room.  The 18th century paneling was given carved plume finials by Pinto and inserts of what appears to be gilt-stamped leather.  The text that accompanies these color photos is translated from French and more than a little cryptic, but states that the portrait is placed to focus attention.  And it states that the portrait is part of a multicultural design mixture that includes the haute epoque chandelier and an upper wall display of Spanish and Brazilian silver plates.

A previous installation of the portrait was in the main room of a Louis XIII period manor house.  Along with a suede (or velvet) contemporary sectional sofa, the painting offers sharp contrast to the traditional patterned terra cotta floor, textured whitewashed walls, and solid wood ceiling beams.  It is also interesting to note that the painting was reframed for the more formal Dining Room, with less carving on a partially gilded profile and with the omission of the linen liner.

The color images are from ALBERTO PINTO CLASSICS, published by Rizzoli, 2001.  The black & white image is from DECORATION, VOLUME II, published by French & European Publications, 1963.  The previous entries in The Travellers series can be revisited by clicking on the key words chimneypiece, folding screen, and sunburst clock.