From one of the most celebrated artists of all time, Pierre-August Renoir was not known for his lithographs as he did not come into this medium until later in his life and unlike many other artists of the time, he produced very few pieces. From his lifetime portfolio of less than 100 images, four of them are considered masterpieces and this is one of them.

      With an edition of only 100 pieces, this is a very early trail proof. Renoir only did four pieces in color, everything else which is much smaller in size and subject were black and white. The trial proof offered here was intended to eventually be in color but Auguste Clot the printer needed black and white proof copies made before he starting adding colors to the stone. This edition does have multiple varieties of colors making up the 100 pieces. Some have 4 different colors, some 6, some 8 and there are a very few of which Renoir himself hand painted the eyes blue and the cheeks rosy which account for the ultimate version of 10 colors. Unlike modern prints very few were signed during this time period. This piece is not signed but the consignor told us the 10 color print that he once owned was hand signed by the artist himself.

      The condition of this 12 x 14 inch print is superb as it has full boarders measuring 23 x 26 inches. There are no signs of discoloration or foxing which has plagued many 19th century lithographs. This piece is extremely rare but very affordable chance to win a true Renoir of significance and not have to pay millions.

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