Preliminary identification

Louis Icart 'Symphony in Blue' (or similar Borzoi subject) Etching, c. 1927-1936

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This exquisite oval color etching and drypoint artwork embodies the quintessential glamour of Paris during the Jazz Age. Created by legendary Art Deco master Louis Icart, it captures an elegant woman draped in tulle and pearls alongside graceful Borzoi hounds. The piece retains subtle hand-colored accents, including a bright pop of blue on her wrist jewel.

Story

During the Roaring Twenties, Louis Icart's etchings defined Parisian luxury and high fashion across Europe and America. His iconic depictions of glamorous women and slender Borzoi dogs captured the spirit of speed, elegance, and modern liberation. Today, these works remain world-famous symbols of Art Deco sensuality.

Maker / Origin

Louis Icart (1888–1950) was a French artist whose career exploded in the 1920s as his drypoint etchings captured the world's imagination. He developed a signature technique combining drypoint, etching, and aquatint, often enhanced with soft hand-drawn watercolor touches. His wife, Fanny Volmers, served as his primary muse, inspiring the stylized, romantic women that defined his life's work.

Condition & Value

The etching appears framed under glass with some surface reflections visible. The paper shows mild, even age-toning and faint foxing consistent with period paper. Proper preservation out of direct sunlight will help maintain the delicate colors.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.