A portfolio of fourteen individually numbered and signed compositional studies by French ceramic artist Roger Capron (1922-2006), for a proposed ceramic mural, dated November 1984. The fourteen studies, each approximately 8 × 5.75 inches, are mounted in pairs on seven sheets of approximately 9.5 × 12.5 inches. Eight are original hand-worked polychromatic compositions employing various combinations of collage, watercolor or gouache, colored marker, ink, and graphite; the remaining six are monochrome reproductions, individually signed and dated. The studies are executed on differing paper supports, including translucent tracing paper and opaque paper, reflecting their distinct techniques. Each initialed and dated “R.C. 11.84.” Preserved with the original Roger Capron presentation portfolio and accompanying correspondence from Milanese interior designer Carlo Costa.
The arrangement presents all fourteen studies as a coherent, numbered portfolio, documenting Capron's exploration of figural arrangements, decorative patterns, and color relationships for an architectural mural. The eight original works employ his characteristic palette of blues, reds, ochres, yellows, greens, and purples, with stylized figures, geometric ornament, and rhythmic linear patterns recalling his ceramic decoration.
Of particular interest is Study No. 1, a carefully constructed mixed-media collage on stiff white paper. Individually cut black elements are assembled over the foundation, with openings exposing the underlying white surface. The interior spaces incorporate hand-applied color and ink, together with faint graphite markings and possible incised guidelines. The layered construction suggests an approach analogous to the assembly of individual elements in a ceramic mural. Its position at the beginning of the numbered sequence may indicate a principal compositional proposal, although the precise order of development remains uncertain.
The remaining seven polychromatic studies employ varying combinations of hand-applied color, ink, and graphite, several on translucent tracing paper. The visible differences in application, occasional underdrawing, and interplay of line and color document successive interpretations of related compositions. Study No. 9 is mounted with its reverse facing outward, with the artist's signature on the exposed side, apparently an intentional use of the translucent support to present an alternative orientation.
The six monochrome studies, on a distinct thin but opaque paper, appear to be photographic or mechanically reproduced impressions of black-and-white compositions, individually signed and dated by Capron. Their granular surfaces and reproduced brushwork distinguish them from the original hand-rendered studies. Apart from the signatures and minor incidental traces of pigment, substantive hand intervention has not been established.
Produced four years after the sale of his Vallauris manufactory, the portfolio belongs to a period in which Capron increasingly concentrated on independent ceramic and architectural projects. It reflects his continuing interest in the relationship between pictorial composition, decorative surface, and architectural space.
The portfolio has significance both as a group of eight original Capron works on paper and as a working document comprising fourteen related compositional variations. An uncommon, cohesive group of signed studies from Capron's mature period, retaining its original numbered sequence and associated correspondence.
Bumping, rubbing and minor chipping to extremities of the portfolio folder with a partial split to one flap seam. Gentle bumping to the extremities of the support sheets. The fourteen studies are generally well-preserved, with colors remaining bold and vibrant. Study no. 7 is loose with minor bumping. Overall, very good condition for a working portfolio of this age and character. Price is for the entire portfolio. Additional information and images available upon request.
A portfolio of fourteen individually numbered and signed compositional studies by French ceramic artist Roger Capron (1922-2006), for a proposed ceramic mural, dated November 1984. The fourteen studies, each approximately 8 × 5.75 inches, are mounted in pairs on seven sheets of approximately 9.5 × 12.5 inches. Eight are original hand-worked polychromatic compositions employing various combinations of collage, watercolor or gouache, colored marker, ink, and graphite; the remaining six are monochrome reproductions, individually signed and dated. The studies are executed on differing paper supports, including translucent tracing paper and opaque paper, reflecting their distinct techniques. Each initialed and dated “R.C. 11.84.” Preserved with the original Roger Capron presentation portfolio and accompanying correspondence from Milanese interior designer Carlo Costa.
The arrangement presents all fourteen studies as a coherent, numbered portfolio, documenting Capron's exploration of figural arrangements, decorative patterns, and color relationships for an architectural mural. The eight original works employ his characteristic palette of blues, reds, ochres, yellows, greens, and purples, with stylized figures, geometric ornament, and rhythmic linear patterns recalling his ceramic decoration.
Of particular interest is Study No. 1, a carefully constructed mixed-media collage on stiff white paper. Individually cut black elements are assembled over the foundation, with openings exposing the underlying white surface. The interior spaces incorporate hand-applied color and ink, together with faint graphite markings and possible incised guidelines. The layered construction suggests an approach analogous to the assembly of individual elements in a ceramic mural. Its position at the beginning of the numbered sequence may indicate a principal compositional proposal, although the precise order of development remains uncertain.
The remaining seven polychromatic studies employ varying combinations of hand-applied color, ink, and graphite, several on translucent tracing paper. The visible differences in application, occasional underdrawing, and interplay of line and color document successive interpretations of related compositions. Study No. 9 is mounted with its reverse facing outward, with the artist's signature on the exposed side, apparently an intentional use of the translucent support to present an alternative orientation.
The six monochrome studies, on a distinct thin but opaque paper, appear to be photographic or mechanically reproduced impressions of black-and-white compositions, individually signed and dated by Capron. Their granular surfaces and reproduced brushwork distinguish them from the original hand-rendered studies. Apart from the signatures and minor incidental traces of pigment, substantive hand intervention has not been established.
Produced four years after the sale of his Vallauris manufactory, the portfolio belongs to a period in which Capron increasingly concentrated on independent ceramic and architectural projects. It reflects his continuing interest in the relationship between pictorial composition, decorative surface, and architectural space.
The portfolio has significance both as a group of eight original Capron works on paper and as a working document comprising fourteen related compositional variations. An uncommon, cohesive group of signed studies from Capron's mature period, retaining its original numbered sequence and associated correspondence.
Bumping, rubbing and minor chipping to extremities of the portfolio folder with a partial split to one flap seam. Gentle bumping to the extremities of the support sheets. The fourteen studies are generally well-preserved, with colors remaining bold and vibrant. Study no. 7 is loose with minor bumping. Overall, very good condition for a working portfolio of this age and character. Price is for the entire portfolio. Additional information and images available upon request.
Image 1 of 22
Image 2 of 22
Image 3 of 22
Image 4 of 22
Image 5 of 22
Image 6 of 22
Image 7 of 22
Image 8 of 22
Image 9 of 22
Image 10 of 22
Image 11 of 22
Image 12 of 22
Image 13 of 22
Image 14 of 22
Image 15 of 22
Image 16 of 22
Image 17 of 22
Image 18 of 22
Image 19 of 22
Image 20 of 22
Image 21 of 22
Image 22 of 22
