'The Owl' (La Chouette) by Raymond Debiève (1968)

'The Owl' (La Chouette), gouache on fine paper (1968), by Raymond Dèbieve (1931 - 2011). Owls are often seen as mysterious, mostly because many are strictly nocturnal and humans have always found night to be full of mystery and the unknown. Owls live within the darkness, which includes magic, mystery, and ancient knowledge. Related to the night is the moon, which owls are also connected to. It becomes a symbol of the feminine and fertility, with the moon’s cycles of renewal (Information from Ted Andrews's Animal-Speak, Jessica Dawn Palmer's Animal Wisdom, and Steven D. Farmer's Power Animals.) In R. Dèbieve's interpretation of the owl - clearly inspired by Picasso - it is beautifully perched on its nocturnal tree with glimmering stars behind. Like Picasso, Debiève frequently paints scenes from nature including birds. Picasso both painted owls and created many owl-themed ceramics which are some of his most beloved works. Its facial feathers here, or ruff, take on the appearance of a lion's mane. Perhaps Debiève's owl, however, is really the king of the jungle. In good vintage condition. Newly framed and glazed. Signed: 'Raymond Dèbieve Sol' and dated '28-12-68'. Upon request, a video of the work will be provided.

About the Artist: Raymond Dèbieve (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, Dèbieve 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, Dèbieve's star has been on the rise and his works more and more in demand internationally. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 37.5 cm / 14.8"

W 29.5 cm / 11.6"

Dimensions without frame:

H 30 cm / 11.8"

W 22 cm / 8.7"