art nouveau lithograph

L’Illusion – H. Bellery-Desfontaines, 1898

Henri Bellery-Desfontaines (1867–1909)
L’Illusion, 1898

An original lithograph by the French Art Nouveau artist Henri Bellery-Desfontaines, published in L’Estampe Moderne in 1898. Known for his richly ornamental and symbolist compositions, Bellery-Desfontaines was a key figure in the movement’s decorative revival, combining allegory and fantasy with precise draughtsmanship. L’Illusion exemplifies his mastery of flowing line and atmospheric color, typical of the Parisian fin-de-siècle aesthetic.

Details
Lithograph on wove paper
Signed on the plate lower left
Blind stamp of L’Estampe Moderne (bottom right)
Printed in Paris, 1898
Sheet size: approximately 40.5 × 30.5 cm / 15.9 × 12 in.
Condition: Excellent; on its full sheet

Comments
One of the most sought-after designs from L’Estampe Moderne for its striking allegorical imagery and refined execution. A beautiful example of Bellery-Desfontaines’ decorative symbolism and mastery of lithographic color.