Paul Baudry, Large Allegorical Drawing, France, Work, Peace, Diploma, Universal Exhibition 1878

Paul Baudry (1828-1886) First sketch for the Diploma of Honor of the 1878 Universal Exhibition.

Important preparatory drawing in black pencil with white gouache highlights by Paul Baudry, representing the design for the allegorical group intended for the diploma of honor of the 1878 Universal Exhibition.
The composition, inscribed in a large arched format, shows France personified, seated and holding the Gallic sword, extending her hand to Labor, represented by a genius crowned with laurels. Beside her rests the allegorical figure of Peace. This scene symbolizes the union of labor, the arts, and peace, the central theme of the Paris Universal Exhibition.

The drawing constitutes an initial research sketch for the final composition of the diploma awarded to the exhibitors honored at the exhibition. With its repeated erasures and the covering of certain modifications, it bears witness to the preparatory work of Baudry, famous for his grand official decorations and especially for the frescoes of the Palais Garnier.

This composition was widely commented on at the time by art critics, notably in an article by Émile Bergerat, who emphasizes the elegance and clarity of the allegory conceived by Baudry, heir to the classical tradition of Ingres and Prud'hon.

The work is signed, dated, and captioned at the bottom center: "1st Sketch for the 1878 diploma – Baudry." A contemporary article by Émile Bergerat, illustrated with our drawing, is included.

Technique: black pencil with white gouache highlights on paper.
Dimensions: 30 × 68 cm (drawing, on two sheets).
Dimensions with frame: 64 × 97 cm.

Condition: stains and traces of old restorations.

A very rare testimony to the creative process of Paul Baudry for one of the major official documents of the Universal Exhibition of 1878. A very interesting historical detail is hidden in this drawing (related to the secret phrase mentioned by Émile Bergerat).