Claude Weisbuch (1927–2014), Chevalier, 1970s

Artistic lithograph on Arches handmade paper, 55 x 75 cm (inner dimensions of the mat), mounted in a frame measuring 82 x 102 cm
Limited edition, numbered in pencil 70/280 on the right
Signed in pencil by the artist at the bottom right: "Weisbuch"
Publisher: Éditions Vision Nouvelle (Paris); produced at Atelier Desjobert (Paris)—one of the most famous and highly regarded Parisian lithographic print shops, where a significant portion of Weisbuch’s lithographs were created.
Claude Weisbuch is considered one of the greatest masters of printmaking and drawing of the 20th century. A genius of the line and the capture of movement: Weisbuch developed a completely unique style in which the line not only outlines a shape but literally “comes to life.” Instead of a static, smooth finish, he employed multiple, rapid, and expressive strokes. This creates the illusion of stop-motion movement, vibration, and a unique sense of momentum. In addition to musicians and theater figures, horses were one of Weisbuch’s most important subjects. In his depiction, the horse is a symbol of untamed strength, elemental energy, and elegance. Weisbuch deliberately limited his palette to shades of sepia, ochres, warm browns, and velvety black against a cream-colored paper background. This style clearly draws on the sketches and drawings of masters such as Rembrandt, Honoré Daumier, and Leonardo da Vinci. He created in the “Non Finito” (unfinished sketch) aesthetic: The artist himself used to say, “I like sketches, the unfinished, images full of mystery.” The austerity of the background, combined with a dense network of dynamic lines, creates an incredible atmosphere of drama and elegance.
As a result, Weisbuch’s lithographs are highly prized by collectors around the world for their dynamic form, masterful craftsmanship, and refined, timeless aesthetic.

Weisbuch’s works are included in the collections of the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Staatliche Graphische Sammlung in Munich.