'The French Rooster' by Raymond Debiève (circa 1960s)

'The French Rooster', gouache on art paper, by Raymond Debiève (circa 1960s). A Mid-Century modern depiction of the French coq, or rooster. The origin of this symbol dates back to ancient history. At that time, Romans were taunting Gauls because of a linguistic coincidence – in Latin, the word gallus meant Gaul… but also rooster. With time, the French kings adopted the rooster as a symbol of courage and bravery. During the Revolution, the rooster became the symbol of the people and of the State. This depiction is Raymond Debiéve's take on that national symbol. This artwork is unsigned or dated. Provenance: Debiève family Paris. In good overall condition, the painting is newly framed and glazed with non-reflective glass. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying this listing. A video 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 57.5 cm / 22.6"

W 64 cm / 25.2"

Dimensions without frame:

H 42 cm / 16.5"

W 48.5 cm / 19.1"