A striking 1965 French abstract by André Verdet, built around a series of bold, biomorphic black forms set against a deep oxblood ground. Small flashes of white interrupt the composition, giving the otherwise weighty shapes a wonderful sense of movement and tension. There’s something distinctly mid-century about its confidence and restraint, graphic, sculptural and incredibly chic. Signed and dated by the artist, and presented in its slim gilt frame. Hand-sourced in France by Ashley. Andre Verdet (1913-2004) was a polymath to his core, he was a sculptor, a jazz musician, a poet, a painter, and a ceramist. Encouraged by the likes of Jean Giono and Jacques Prévet, literature was his first love, beginning with poetry and later transitioning into essays on art. This transition was inspired by Pablo Picasso who he met in 1951 after many years in captivity at Auschwitz and Buchenwald. At this time Picasso was sculpting and showcasing at the Madoura, during which Verdet would have first met the gallery's patron Suzanne Ramie. It is undeniable that Verdet's abstract, cut out forms were inspired by the likes of Matisse, Picasso, and Léger who were creating synochronously in the South of France. Keep out of direct sunlight and gently dust with a soft cloth. Please note this item is final sale.