'Portrait of Woman in the Garden' by Raymond Debiève (1975)

'Portrait of Woman in the Garden', oil on fine art paper (1975), by Raymond Debiève. An alert and lively young woman is outdoors enjoying being in nature. She is surrounded by greenery with a butterfly fluttering nearby. In its metamorphosis from the common, colourless caterpillar to the exquisite winged creature of delicate beauty, the butterfly has become a metaphor for transformation and hope; across cultures, it has become a symbol for rebirth and resurrection, for the triumph of the spirit and the soul over the prison of the material world. Spring is in the air in this artwork and its message of hope and beauty is compelling. Picasso's influence is undeniable yet Debiève's own naive artistic style is on display as well. In good overall condition. Newly framed and glazed with anti-reflective glass. Signed 'Debiève' in the upper right hand and dated 25-4-'75. 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"