Created in 1898, this original lithograph by Alphonse Mucha was designed for Les Chansons Éternelles, a collection of poems by the French writer Paul Redonnel. The richly illustrated edition was published in Paris in a limited run of 550 numbered copies, making surviving examples particularly desirable. Mucha depicts a contemplative young woman whose flowing hair fills the upper part of the composition. Her delicate hand gestures suggest that she is listening to a distant melody, while the circular arrangement of pearl-like flowers behind her reinforces the poetic and dreamlike atmosphere. The title is woven directly into the image, crossing the folds of the woman’s dress and becoming an integral part of the design. Strong black outlines are softened by pale blue, green and violet tones, creating the refined harmony characteristic of Mucha’s Parisian Art Nouveau period. The work is signed and dated within the stone at the lower left. Born in Moravia in 1860, Alphonse Mucha achieved international fame in Paris following his celebrated theatrical posters for Sarah Bernhardt. His unmistakable visual language—graceful female figures, flowing lines, ornamental halos and carefully designed lettering—came to define the decorative elegance of the Belle Époque. Combining literary history, original lithography and one of Mucha’s most recognizable compositions, Les Chansons Éternelles is a refined collector’s piece. Its limited publication and intimate format make it especially appealing to admirers of Art Nouveau, illustrated books and Mucha’s works on paper. Original Lithograph Art Nouveau - Literature - Music Paul Redonnel Good condition, one tear, slight soiling
