Color lithograph, carborundum technique, hand-finished, Rives paper , 73x 54 cm in light passe - partout ; signed in pencil by the author "th tobiasse "p.d. and numbered l.d. 1/150.
Publisher : La Diagonale del L'art,
executed in the workshop of Pierr Chave using a dozen separate matrices.
The composition depicts characters (Colombina and Pantaleon) from the Italian comedy dell'arte, a popular theatrical trend created in the 16th century.
An exceptional work by Théo Tobiasse - one of the most recognizable masters of narrative figuration of the 20th century. Entitled "Colombine et Pantalone," the work is a quintessential example of the artist's style, combining theatrical passion, Jewish heritage and technical mastery.
The work was executed in the demanding technique of lithography using carborundum. The use of carbon silicide (carborundum) allows for an extremely rich, almost sculptural texture. "Impasto" effect: With this method, the surface of the paper acquires a matte, grainy finish and a three-dimensionality that is unattainable in traditional lithography. With a thick application of paint, the blues, yellows and reds retain their original juiciness and vibrant energy.
Théo Tobiasse is an artist whose name is recognized on the international art market.His works are in permanent museum collections around the world (including Nice and Tel Aviv).
Theo Tobiasse was greatly influenced by the mysticism and poetry of his friend Marc Chagall's works. It was at Chagall's side that he learned how to combine the sacred and the profane - how to paint biblical stories alongside scenes from the circus or Parisian cafes. However, despite his great respect for Chagall, Tobiasse developed his own, more predatory and sensual style. While Chagall's paintings are often ethereal and delicate, Tobiasse's works are denser, earthier and infused with eroticism and urban bustle.
Their friendship was proof that great art is born from dialogue and common roots. Today, looking at Tobiasse's lithographs , such as "Colombine et Pantalone," one can't help but notice this "Chagallian" spirit - the same joie de vivre and melancholy that makes their works universal and timeless.
It is this aura of "Chagall's successor" that makes Théo Tobiasse's works of enduring interest on the international art market - especially among collectors who appreciate poetic metaphor and richly textured imagery.
