Sur la Plage. On the Beach. by Edgar Degas, 1834-1917

Edgar Degas, 1834-1917
Scroll down for information.
Click here to return to the list.

Sur la Plage. On the Beach.

Original lithograph in black ink on pale cream paper with a green-toned backing sheet. c.1888. Signed in pencil by Degas (and by Thornley). Conceived and created by Degas; lithographed by Thornley with Degas's close supervision. Edition of 25 signed impressions (plus 100 unsigned with the publication line). Issued in the album:'Quinze Lithographies' by
Boussod Valadon, Paris 1889. Printed at Atelier Becquet.
Ref: Reed-Shapiro - Degas, Boston Museum 1894, cat page lvii

Extremely fine rich first proof impression. On pale cream chine appliqué with a green-toned backing sheet, as issued. Excellent condition, not restored. One minor tear in the extreme outer sheet edge. Full margins. Sheet: 22 3/8x15 ¼ ins. Image: 7 5/8 x 13 1/2ins (193x342mm).

This item is sold.
Click here to enquire about this item.

One of the 25 very rare proof impressions pencil signed by Degas (and by Thornley - see below) before the regular unsigned issue of 100. These proof impressions are also in a slightly differing ink tone to the regular issue.

Although beach scenes occur quite frequently amongst Degas?s paintings and drawings this is his only lithograph treatment of the theme.

Degas was an enthusiastic admirer of William Thorley?s gifts as a lithographer, and immediately supported he suggestion from Theo Van Gogh at Boussod Valadon that they should work together on a series of prints. Degas chose the themes and then worked with Thornley, correcting and retouching the stones which he had prepared, so as to be certain that they had all the nuances of light and line which he sought. The resulting prints were very highly admired by critics like Féneon wren they were first exhibited. The first signed proof impressions are now very rare.