Raymond Debiève, Reclining en Plein Air, 1960s, Gouache on Paper, Framed

Reclining Nude en Plein Aire', gouache on art paper, by Raymond Debiève (circa 1960s). The reclining figure is one of the most popular poses in art history. It is firmly embedded within western and eastern art historical traditions. The reclining Buddha is a major piece of iconography within Buddhist art. Reclining figures have sometimes historically conveyed a sense of entitlement, elite status and power. The posture gives the impression that somebody is being waited upon, attended to, or served. In Debiève's rendition however, the subject is lying nude outdoors as simply another natural entity in the rich, green environment. The woman is contemplative and serenely interconnected with the trees, the flowers and the hills which form the backdrop for the work. Picasso's influence is undeniable yet Debiève's own naive artistic style is on display as well. On many unsigned works, the Debiève family certification authority affixes their stamp. In this case it appears in the lower right hand. It is in fair-to-good overall condition with some fading due to age and some very minor blemishes in the paint. It is now protected for decades to come in a new frame with anti-reflective glass. About the Artist : Raymond Debiève (1931-2011), was born, along with his twin brother, Michel, in the North of France near the border with Belgium. Their parents, of humble origins, noted a talent for drawing and art in both of the boys and encouraged them in that direction. Unfortunately the boys were separated during the war years but reunited afterwards. They attended the School of Fine Arts in Valenciennes after WWII where they were awarded successive 1st prizes in the Concours de Encouragement à l'Art . Raymond not only painted but was a gifted sculptor of metal works as well. In 1960 he exhibited, with great success, a series of very colourful paintings at the Galerie des Flandres in Lille, France and later in his career in Paris and Switzerland. Primarily with respect to his portraits of women, Raymond was undeniably influenced by Picasso. At the same time, he has managed to forge a distinct style which is much admired and now collected. I n 1962 D e bi è ve relocated to Provence with his family where he continued to create and exhibit art until his death in the town of Orange in 2011. Since then, D e bi è ve 's star has been on the rise and his works more and more in demand internationally. Dimensions with frame : H 57 cm / 22.4" W 67 cm / 26.4" Dimensions without frame : H 43.5 cm / 17.1" W 54 cm / 21.3"