Orphée à la Lyre

Dimensions: 34 x 25 in. (86 x 63 cm)
Material: Handwoven wool tapestry by Atelier Picaud, Aubusson
Artist signature: signed in the weave, “Jean Cocteau” & “Picaud”, with Raymond Picaud label to reverse.
Date: Circa 1960

Jean Cocteau “Orphée à la Lyre” Tapestry
The “Orphée à la Lyre” tapestry, created by the renowned French artist Jean Cocteau and woven by the illustrious Picaud atelier of Aubusson, France, is an exquisite embodiment of Cocteau’s captivating artistry and the tapestry weaving tradition’s enduring craftsmanship.

Dating to approximately 1960, this tapestry bears Cocteau’s signature interwoven into the weave, a testament to his direct involvement in the creation of this masterpiece. The tapestry’s reverse bears a Raymond Picaud label, further endorsing the tapestry’s authenticity and the meticulous attention to detail employed by the Picaud artisans.

The tapestry’s central motif, depicting the youthful visage of Orpheus, the legendary Greek musician and poet, is rendered in bold mustard yellow and verdant green hues against a serene cream backdrop. Orpheus’s serene expression and delicate features are beautifully captured, epitomizing the tapestry’s harmonious blend of vibrancy and elegance.

Measuring 86 centimeters in height and 63 centimeters in width, this tapestry exudes a sense of visual balance and compositional harmony. The use of wool yarn, a testament to traditional tapestry weaving techniques, imparts a rich texture and warmth to the tapestry’s surface.

This tapestry’s impeccable condition, designated as “parfait,” underscores the meticulous care and preservation it has received throughout its history. Free from any signs of wear or damage, the tapestry presents itself as a testament to Cocteau’s artistic vision and the enduring craftsmanship of the Picaud atelier.

Originating from France, this tapestry bears the indelible imprint of these two artistic heritages, blending Cocteau’s avant-garde sensibilities with the rich tradition of French tapestry weaving. It stands as a captivating example of the tapestry’s versatility as a medium for artistic expression, seamlessly merging the realms of painting and textile art.