Created in 1958, this original color lithograph entitled Coursier I is by Jacques Villon, one of the leading French printmakers associated with Cubism. This impression is numbered 84/120 and signed by the artist in pencil in the lower margin. It is referenced in the catalogue raisonné by Ginestet and Pouillon as Appendix 101.
Rather than representing its equestrian subject naturalistically, Villon translates the speed and energy of a coursier—a swift horse—into a striking arrangement of intersecting geometric planes. Powerful diagonals converge near the center of the composition, suggesting forward movement, tension and controlled momentum.
The palette combines deep burgundy, ochre, yellow, rose, blue, black and pale neutral tones. Areas of flat color are balanced by passages displaying the distinctive grain of lithographic printing, creating subtle variations in texture. The broad margins emphasize the contained rectangular composition and give the work a refined architectural presence.
Born Gaston Duchamp, Jacques Villon was the elder brother of Marcel Duchamp, Raymond Duchamp-Villon and Suzanne Duchamp. He became an important figure in the development of French Cubism and was a founding member of the Section d’Or group. Throughout his career, printmaking remained central to his artistic practice, allowing him to explore complex relationships between geometry, movement and color.
Printed in colors on fine art paper and published by the Guilde de la Gravure, the work bears the publisher’s blind stamp in the lower-left margin. Its pencil signature, numbering and documented catalogue reference make this original lithograph particularly desirable for collectors of Cubism, modern French printmaking and twentieth-century abstract art.
Original Lithograph
Numbered 84/120 and signed by the artist - G. and P. app. 101
Dry stamp: guile of engraving
Very good state
Sign up & benefit from discounts or exclusive offers.