717 - JEAN-GABRIEL DOMERGUE (1889-1962)

JEAN-GABRIEL DOMERGUE (1889-1962) A group of four illustrations for The Marriage of Loti 1936 signed in the plate lithograph and watercolour on paper 15.7 x 10.5 cm (each) executed circa 1936 This illustration was created for the 1936 illustrated edition of The Marriage of Loti by Pierre Loti, originally published in 1878 under the title Rarahu. The novel recounts Loti's stay in Tahiti and his relationship with a young Tahitian girl named Rarahu while stationed in Papeete. The story follows a naval officer, Harry Grant (a literary stand-in for Loti), who adopts the rhythms of Tahitian life and enters into a temporary ‘marriage’ with the young girl. Their intense but short-lived romance ends tragically when the officer departs the island, leaving Rarahu heartbroken. The narrative is a notable example of nineteenth-century romantic exoticism, offering evocative descriptions of Polynesian landscapes and culture while reflecting the complex encounter between European visitors and indigenous society during the period of French colonial expansion. Upon the buyer’s request, we are pleased to provide a general condition report for the Lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to conduct their own inspection or consult a specialist or restorer of their choice for a comprehensive professional assessment. Any condition descriptions provided in the catalogue or through any correspondence are for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for a firsthand evaluation. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD ‘AS IS’ IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.