Entourage (or By?) Paul César Helleu (1859-1927) - Study Of A Reclining Woman

Circle (or by ?) Paul César HELLEU (1859–1927)
Study of a Reclining Woman

Red chalk, black charcoal, and white chalk highlights on toned laid paper
27 x 18.9 cm
Illegible signature lower left (possibly the name of the model)

Provenance
Private collection, France

A refined and worldly artist, Paul César Helleu was one of the most sought-after portraitists of the Belle Époque, renowned for his elegant depictions of Parisian women, executed with a virtuoso spontaneity and remarkable mastery of line. His technique, combining red chalk, black charcoal, and white chalk highlights on toned paper, is characteristic of his life studies from the model, often captured directly from life.

The present sheet, with its supple line, delicate highlights, and attention to unposed feminine postures, closely relates to his known works. It may have originated from the artist’s studio or from a close associate, and embodies the light, intimate aesthetic that made Helleu’s work so successful.