'Portrait of Smiling Woman' by Raymond Debiève (circa 1970s)

'Portrait of Smiling Woman', pastel and crayon on art paper, by Raymond Debiève (circa 1970s). Is this a modern version of da Vinci's Mona Lisa? The similarities are certainly apparent - the outline of wavy hair, the high brow, the is-she or isn't-she looking at me gaze, the folded hands, and the allusion to La Gioconda's curls which drape her neck and shoulders. But mostly, it is the angle of the face with which the figure gazes at the viewer. This is Debiève's Mona Lisa. The artwork is in good overall condition and has been newly framed and glazed with anti-reflective glass. As is the case with this painting, on the many unsigned artworks, the Debiève family certification authority affixes their stamp. In this case it appears in the lower right hand. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying this listing. A video of this work may be provided upon request.

About the Artist: Raymond Debiève (1931-2011), was born, along with his twin brother, Michel, in the North of France near the border with Belgium. Their parents, of humble origins, noted a talent for drawing and art in both of the boys and encouraged them in that direction. Unfortunately the boys were separated during the war years but reunited afterwards. They attended the School of Fine Arts in Valenciennes after WWII where they were awarded successive 1st prizes in the Concours de Encouragement à l'Art. Raymond not only painted but was a gifted sculptor of metal works as well. In 1960 he exhibited, with great success, a series of very colourful paintings at the Galerie des Flandres in Lille, France and later in his career in Paris and Switzerland. Primarily with respect to his portraits of women, Raymond was undeniably influenced by Picasso. At the same time, he has managed to forge a distinct style which is much admired and now collected. In 1962, Debiève relocated to Provence with his family where he continued to create and exhibit art until his death in the town of Orange in 2011. Since then, Debiève's star has been on the rise and his works more and more in demand internationally. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 39 cm / 15.4"

W 33 cm / 13"

Dimensions without frame:

H 27 cm / 10.6"

W 21 cm / 8.3"