62 - VERDICUS - c.1915

VERDICUS - c.1915 Signed “Sandy HOOK” (Georges Taboureau, known as Sandy Hook, 1879–1960) in the lower right corner of the plate. Exceptional original embossed lithographed advertising sheet metal. 50 x 35 cm. “Metalgraf.O.M.Milano” (inscription erased) This work marks a unique departure in the career of Sandy Hook, a painter then primarily known for his seascapes. This previously unpublished work by the artist masterfully illustrates the breadth of his color palette. The attribution is confirmed by his signature, identical in every respect to those found on his famous series of recruitment posters for the French Navy, “Join the Navy.” This highly unusual example shows signs of wear, including missing sections, perforations, oxidation, and warping of the metal sheet. Despite these signs of age, the original design remains intact, retaining a good vibrancy of highlights and colors. To ensure its structural rigidity, this sheet metal has been secured to a wooden panel at its four corners. VERDICUS (formerly Établissements Verdier-Dufour et Cie, Paris). Produced in the early 20th century by this famous Parisian manufacturer founded in 1849. The design features a charming automotive illustration in which a race car driver carefully wipes down a miniature car held in the palm of his hands, humorously and effectively illustrating the delicacy and technical sophistication of the brand’s sanitized wipes. Paris/Île-de-France