The Pentecost (Les Flammes du Saint-Esprit)
Modern Oil Painting / Tapestry Cartoon style • Attributed to or after Jean Lurçat (French, 1892–1966)
Style & Movement
Modernist / Post-Cubism / Surrealist-inflected Tapestry Revival
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas (likely) or high-quality lithograph/print; utilizes a fragmented, mosaic-like approach with heavy stylization and flattened perspective.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1945–1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 50 x 30 cm; vertical/portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A dense, crowded composition depicting 'Pentecost,' featuring numerous human figures and animals (including a prominent horse at the top). The figures appear in various states of transition, symbolizing spiritual transformation. The vertical inscription 'Pentecost' is visible on the upper left margin.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair; the image shows significant blurring, low lighting, and potential color fading or discoloration of the support.
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $1,500 (depending on whether it is a lithograph or an original oil study)
Auction Estimate
$150 - $1,000
Provenance History
Unknown; the presence of a titled inscription suggests a commercial reproduction or a study for a larger commissioned work (likely a textile/tapestry).
Art Historical Significance
Crucial as an example of the mid-century French effort to modernize liturgical and grand-scale decorative arts. Lurçat was instrumental in the 'Aubusson' tapestry revival, blending medieval techniques with modern graphic sensibilities.
Notable Features
Hand-rendered vertical title 'Pentecost' along the upper left edge; distinctive organic but sharp line-work typical of the French 'Painter-Tapestry' movement.
Condition Issues
Visible pixelation in the digital file obscures fine detail; potential foxing or acid damage from the mount is suspected based on the border color.
Conservation Recommendations
Verify the authenticity of the signature; if original, re-mount using acid-free materials and UV-protective glazing to prevent further fading of the pigments.