Jacek Malczewski (1854-1929), Satyr and Nymph [Polychrome design], late 19th and early 20th century.

Watercolor, pencil, paper; size: 13 x 27 cm; signed in pencil p. d.: JMalczewski. Work framed in old pp.

Exceptionally beautiful sketch by a leading artist of the Young Poland period. Jacek Malczewski (1854-1929) was fond of introducing into his symbolic compositions figures drawn from ancient mythology, Christian iconography, as well as native folk tales and legends. Sitting with their backs to each other - a young Nymph and a Satyr fondly bringing his mouth close to the cup - form a symmetrical composition inscribed in the shape of a triangle. Such a depiction of the naked figures, brought out from the blue watercolor background with a skilful, though freely guided contour, may suggest the probable purpose of the sketch as a design for a polychrome or tympanum. Jacek Malczewski's works, in addition to their undeniable artistic value, are always a thoughtful collector's investment.