This is an original watercolour for a printed fabric. Although the individual flowers are detailed, retaining an element of naturalism, Mucha has stylized the stems to create the sensual curving lines associated with the art nouveau style. The thick, dark outlines of the flowers and flat areas of colour are also a feature of Art Nouveau. Mucha has used soft, pastel colours for the flowers and included gentle curving shapes in the background.
Alphonse Mucha (Czech, 1860 - 1939)
Czech artist Mucha began his career as a theatrical scene-painter. He studied art in Munich and in Paris, where he lived from 1888. Mucha is best known for his flowing art nouveau poster designs. In the 1890s, his work for the actress Sarah Bernhardt brought him to the public attention. He designed posters, stage sets, costumes and jewellery for her. In 1922, Mucha settled in Prague. As Czechoslovakia had recently won its independence, he gave his services for free to design the country's first banknotes and stamps, amongst other items.
