235 - GEORGES HENRI MANZANA-PISSARRO (1871–1961)

GEORGES HENRI MANZANA-PISSARRO (1871–1961) Fish Among the Seaweed, state proof Woodcut enhanced with gouache and gold, on paper mounted on thick cardboard. Annotated and signed in the upper left: “Manzana-Pissarro, state proof” Matting dimensions: 38.5 x 56 cm Provenance: Félix Pissaro, Menton, and the private collection of Jean Eugène Guillaud, Monaco The notation “state proof” indicates that this is a test print, predating the final edition of an engraving; This unique proof, hand-retouched by the artist himself, is extremely rare as it offers insight into the creative process behind the final print. The composition depicts four fish swimming among stylized seaweed and seagrass, against a golden background accented with midnight blue motifs evoking water and reflections. The graphic treatment features broad blocks of color and repetitive patterns, using a Japanese-style woodcut technique (print-style), hand-enhanced with vivid colors and gold in keeping with the artist’s decorative and Japanese-inspired aesthetic.