Paulette, 6 ans (Portrait of Paulette Helleu)
Print on heavy wove paper • Paul Cesar Helleu (French, 1859-1927)
Style & Movement
Belle Époque / Art Nouveau influence
Medium & Technique
Drypoint etching with hand-coloring (sanguine/pastel highlights to lips)
Creation Period
Circa 1900-1910
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 55 x 35 cm (plate mark); Portrait format
Subject Description
A sensitive portrait of the artist's daughter, Paulette Helleu, at age six. The composition focuses on her expressive face and voluminous dark hair, executed with rapid, elegant lines characteristic of the artist's draftsmanship. She is shown in three-quarter profile wearing a delicate lace or patterned dress.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows visible signs of age including minor foxing and light staining.
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500 USD
Provenance History
Inscribed 'À Monsieur Givenchy' and signed 'Helleu' in graphite lower left, indicating it was likely a gift or part of the Hubert de Givenchy collection.
Art Historical Significance
Helleu was the preeminent portraitist of the Belle Époque's elite. This work is significant for its intimate subject matter (the artist's daughter) and its connection to the Givenchy collection, highlighting the cross-pollination of art and high fashion.
Notable Features
Features a rare personal dedication to the fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy; plate mark is clearly visible; includes the handwritten title 'Paulette 6 ans' at upper right.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (brown spots) primarily on the left margin and near the top edge; slight paper yellowing/toning consistent with age; minor surface dirt.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional de-acidification and cleaning by a paper conservator to address foxing; mounting with acid-free materials; UV-protective glazing and climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.