Raymond Peynet

Click here for works by Raymond Peynet

 

Raymond Peynet was a master of poetic illustration representing 20th century France and an artist widely loved both in Japan and abroad. Even today, monuments are installed in various places, including the Peynet Museums in Antibes, France, and Karuizawa, Japan, and his popularity continues beyond generations.

He established his reputation by publishing illustrations in French and British magazines and was active in a wide range of fields, including illustrations for literary works, stage, ballet, and exhibition decorations. In 1942, the image of "The Lovers," inspired by an open-air bandstand in Valence, France, caused a sensation when it was published in a magazine and gained worldwide popularity as the representative "Lovers" series.

Thereafter, he became widely popular through various developments such as Peynet dolls by a French toy manufacturer and ceramics and tableware by Rosenthal in Germany, and he still maintains high popularity. In addition, he produced many artworks such as drawings, paintings, and prints, and in Japan, Galerie Adekat introduces and sells original prints.

It is known that Princess Grace Kelly of the Principality of Monaco was an enthusiastic collector, and it is said that she collected Peynet's doll series. Also, when Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne of the British Royal Family visited Paris, Peynet's popular dolls were reportedly used as symbolic gifts for the 20th arrondissement of Paris. These episodes illustrate that Peynet's "Lovers" were widely loved as a symbol of French culture.

Furthermore, Peynet, along with Roy Lichtenstein and others of his generation, is being re-evaluated in the context of the expansion of illustration and comic expression into the realm of art. His poetic and universal imagery is once again attracting attention as anticipating a sensibility that resonates with today's contemporary art.

 

1: Biography

1908 Born in Paris.

1922 Graduated from Ecole des Arts Appliqués in Paris. Aspires to a career in advertising design.

1930 Married Denise Damour (her surname Damour means love in French). They were a close couple and their marital love directly connected to the world of Peynet's lovers.

1936 Published drawings in the French English newspaper "The Boulevardier".

1942 Inspired by the open-air bandstand (kiosk) in Valence, France, he drew "Peynet's Lovers," which began serialization in the magazine Ric et Rac.

1952 Honorary citizen of Biot.

1952 Received the French Humor Prize (awarded by the writer Colette).

1953 Won the Grand Prix at the International Cartoon Festival.

1958 Peynet dolls, postcards, etc., exhibited at the Brussels World's Fair.

1970 Received the International Oscar Award.

1974 Feature-length animated film "Peynet's Love and World Travels" released.

1976 Honorary citizen of Valence.

1978 Produced 12 etchings of "The Zodiac".

1981 Produced a fresco in Caro (France). (40m long x 8m high)

1981 Received a gold medal at the Nice Book Fair.

1985 Commemorative Saint Valentine's stamp issued with Peynet's lovers' drawing. (France)

1985 Published Raymond Peynet original lithograph "Lovers" series.

1986 Raymond Peynet Museum (Karuizawa, Japan) opened. Mr. and Mrs. Peynet visited Japan for the opening.

1986 Honorary citizen of Antibes and Bordighera (Italy).

1987 Awarded the Order of Arts and Letters by the French Republic.

1988 The city of Antibes, France, opened the Raymond Peynet and Humorous Painters Museum. The Raymond Peynet Museum opened in Brassac-les-Mines, Peynet's mother's hometown.

1998 Valentine Park Sakuto completed (multi-purpose park with a love theme).

1999 Died in a hospital near Cannes.

 

Exhibitions: France, Italy, Japan, Denmark, Switzerland, USA, Germany, etc.

In recent years: South Korea, China

Other: When Queen Elizabeth of England visited Paris, the city of Paris sent 20 Raymond Peynet dolls (Peynet Dolls) to Princess Anne, as a symbol of all 20 arrondissements of Paris.

The open-air bandstand in Valence was designated a historical monument as "Peynet's Lovers' Bandstand."

The Monnaie de Paris issued a medal with Peynet's portrait engraved on it.

Rosenthal released Peynet's ceramics and tableware, and tableware is still on sale.

Murat Jewelers released Peynet's charm.

Peynet dolls (Peynetdole) were released, and Princess Grace Kelly of the Principality of Monaco purchased and collected all types. They are currently manufactured and sold in China.

Announcement of humorous cartoons

"The Boulevardier" (UK), "Le Rire," "La Bataille," "Paysages," "France-Soir," "Ici Paris," "France Dimanche," "Paris Match," "Marie France," "Marie Claire," "Elle," "Candide," "Ric et Rac," and other local newspapers (France).

 

Publications: Dozens of illustrated books and art collections have been published in France, Germany, Denmark, England, the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, and Poland.

Posters: Numerous for movies, advertisements, etc.

Murals/Fresco: Paris, Saint-Amour, Saint-Valentin, Valence

  

 

2: Raymond Peynet Museums and Theme Parks

Raymond Peynet was a leading artist and illustrator of the 20th century, highly regarded in Europe and America. There is the Raymond Peynet and Humorous Painters Museum in Antibes, France, the Peynet Museum in Brassac, France, the Peynet Museum in Karuizawa, Japan, the Peynet's Love Park and Museum in Saint-Valentin, France, the Raymond Peynet Commemorative Park (Valentine Park) in Mimasaka, Japan, and the Peynet Museum (Sakuto Museum). A sculpture of Peynet's Lovers is displayed as a monument of love and peace in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

1: Municipal Museum of Raymond Peynet and Humorous Drawings, Antibes, France

Statue of Lovers in front of the Peynet Museum ↓

　　

Inside the Peynet Museum ↓

Annie Peynet, daughter of Raymond Peynet, explains the Raymond Peynet original lithograph Four Seasons series on display inside the Raymond Peynet Museum. ↓

The display panels inside the Peynet Museum contain photographs of Raymond Peynet with fans and collectors such as Princess Grace of Monaco and Italian actress Sophia Loren. ↓

Raymond Peynet's original etching Zodiac series on display at the Peynet Museum ↓

 

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

 

In Antibes, on the French Riviera, there is a museum dedicated to Raymond Peynet and humorous painters. It is owned and operated by the city of Antibes, along with the adjacent Picasso Museum, and is an important cultural and tourist asset for Antibes. Antibes, along with Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Nice, forms a significant part of the luxury resort area stretching from the French Riviera to the Italian Riviera. The Côte d'Azur has attracted many artists and is home to several famous museums. Nice has museums for Chagall, Matisse, and Dufy, and while Cannes does not have museums, it hosts the famous Cannes International Film Festival annually, along with many other international events. In Antibes, the Peynet and Humorous Painters Museum and the Picasso Museum are located adjacent to the yacht harbor, attracting many tourists. According to the museum director in 2019, due to the existence of a Peynet Museum in Japan, the proportion of Japanese visitors to the Peynet and Humorous Painters Museum in Antibes used to be relatively high, but recently, with Peynet's popularity growing in China due to the manufacturing and sale of Peynet dolls there, the number of Chinese visitors has been increasing.

I, Yasuhiro Takeda of Galerie Adekat, was commissioned by the Peynet Museum in Karuizawa several times in the 2010s to serve as an exchange envoy between the Peynet Museum in Karuizawa and the Raymond Peynet and Humorous Painters Museum in Antibes, where I exchanged opinions with the museum director and Peynet's daughter, Annie Peynet.

 

 

2: Karuizawa Peynet Museum

In Japan, there are Peynet Museums in Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture, and Mimasaka City, Okayama Prefecture. The Peynet Museum in Karuizawa is located within a cultural theme park called Taliesin. Taliesin comprises the Peynet Museum, the Karuizawa Kogen Bunko, the Tomiko Asabuki Memorial Hall, the English Garden, the villas of famous pre-war writers (Takeo Arishima, Michizo Tachihara, Tatsuo Hori, Yayoi Nogami), and the Fukazawa Beniko Flower Museum. Every summer, flower artist Shogo Kariyazaki holds an event in the English Garden. The Peynet Museum uses the "Summer House," built by Antonin Raymond, a famous Czech architect who came to Japan with American Lloyd, one of the world's three great architects, and was involved in the construction of the Imperial Hotel and Tokyo Woman's Christian University, as its current location. The Peynet Museum in Japan is also a tourist attraction in Karuizawa, a luxury resort.

Galerie Adekat operated a gallery of French paintings and prints called "Galerie Vent de France" at the Karuizawa Prince Hotel and its affiliated facilities for 20 years, from 1995 to 2015. I planned and implemented various events for Karuizawa together with the Prince Hotel and Karuizawa Town. Because I was the world's leading collector of Raymond Peynet's prints, spoke French well, and traveled frequently to France, I was asked by the Peynet Museum to undertake an exchange mission with the Peynet Museum in Antibes.

Karuizawa Peynet Museum Entrance

Statue of Lovers in front of Karuizawa Peynet Museum

3: Raymond Peynet Theme Park, Valentine Park, Mimasaka City, Okayama Prefecture

In 1988, Sakuto Town (now Mimasaka City) established a sister city relationship with Saint-Valentin, France, and in 1998, the Sakuto Valentine Park, a multi-purpose park with a theme of "love," was completed. A statue of Raymond Peynet's Lovers is installed in the center of the park, and the fountain is named the Fountain of Love. The Sakuto Museum within the park houses over 150 works by Raymond Peynet, and a wedding venue and hotel, the Valentine Hotel, modeled after Peynet's Lovers, are also located within the park. It has been designated as a holy site for lovers.

Statue of Lovers at the Fountain of Love in Valentine Park, Mimasaka City, Okayama Prefecture ↓

  

4: Peynet Museum in Brassac, France

There is also a Peynet Museum in Brassac-les-Mines, where Raymond Peynet's mother was born. Raymond Peynet himself stayed there in his childhood, and during World War II, he evacuated there with his wife and daughter. In 1942, Peynet went to Valence and found inspiration for his "Lovers" painting at a kiosk there, but even then, he was living in Brassac as an evacuee.

Exterior of the Peynet Museum in Brassac, France ↓

 

Inside the Peynet Museum in Brassac, France ↓

 

5: "Garden of Love" and Peynet Memorial Museum in Saint-Valentin, France

The town of Saint-Valentin in France has become a sacred place for lovers due to its name. In Japan, February 14th is Valentine's Day, a day for women to express their feelings to men, but in Europe, it is also a day of "love." The origin of Valentine's Day comes from a Christian cleric named Saint Valentine. While there are many clerics named Valentine in history, Father Valentine of the 3rd century Roman Empire is said to be the origin of the name. Below is an anecdote about his love for lovers. In the 3rd century Roman Empire, Emperor Claudius forbade soldiers from marrying to maintain their valor. Father Valentine, in defiance of the emperor's orders, sheltered and married young men and women. When the emperor found out, Father Valentine was executed on February 14th. He is remembered in history as a saint who risked his life to protect the love of young people. From this episode, Saint Valentine is revered as the "patron saint of love." February 14th, the day he died, became the "Day of Love." The town of Saint-Valentin in France has become a sacred place for lovers, with a memorial museum for Raymond Peynet, who depicted the love of lovers, and a "Garden of Love" with a kiosk (open-air bandstand) symbolizing Peynet's lovers. It has a sister city relationship with Mimasaka City, which has the "Valentine Park Sakuto," a love theme park in Japan. Valentine's Day on February 14th is a day of "love" not only in France and Japan but all over the world.

Exterior of the Peynet Memorial Museum in Saint-Valentin ↓

 

Raymond Peynet's painting displayed in the Peynet Memorial Museum in Saint-Valentin ↓

 

6: Raymond Peynet's "Monument of Love and Peace" in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

In 1989, the Sea and Island Exposition was held in Hiroshima, and Raymond Peynet's statue of lovers, "Monument of Love and Peace," was installed at the venue. After the exposition, Hiroshima City purchased it and installed it in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park as a symbol of love and peace. Even today, Peynet's "Monument of Love and Peace" in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which also houses the Atomic Bomb Dome, continues to send a message of love and peace to people all over the world.

Raymond Peynet's "Monument of Love and Peace" statue in Peace Memorial Park

 

 

 

7: Peynet's Bandstand in Valence

When Raymond Peynet visited Valence in 1942, he was inspired by the Kiosque de musique (bandstand) in the park and conceived of a painting of a musician playing the violin and his lover in the bandstand. That was the moment when Peynet's Lovers were born.

The bandstand in 1942, which inspired Raymond Peynet ↓

 The current Kiosque de musique de Peynet (Peynet's Bandstand) in Valence ↓

 

 

3: Raymond Peynet's Paintings, Drawings, Original Lithographs, and Etchings

Since Peynet was an illustrator, he published illustrations in newspapers and such, but not many of his original drawings remain. He didn't think of selling his original drawings, so they were given away or scattered. Original lithographs were published twice. The first time was in 1985, when Mr. Mullet, the president of a printmaking company in Nice, published about 35 original lithographs simultaneously. This was the year the French government issued a commemorative Peynet stamp, and Raymond Peynet's original lithographs were produced and released at the same time as the commemorative stamp. Mr. Mullet had produced the 12 Zodiac series in etching in 1978. All of these works are original works signed by Raymond Peynet and with limited editions. Later, in the 1990s, Mr. Agostini, the son of the painter Tony Agostini, produced and released about 10 original lithographs.

Seven years after Raymond Peynet's prints were released, in 1992, Mr. Mullet, the publisher of Raymond Peynet's original lithographs and etchings, passed away. Through the mediation of Mr. Alexander Tokar, Mr. Mullet's nephew and my junior, Galerie Adekat purchased a total of 5,000 original lithographs and etchings by Raymond Peynet that had remained in the warehouse, approximately 10,000 pieces. The Raymond Peynet original lithographs and etchings sold by Galerie Adekat were purchased directly from Madame Mullet, the original publisher, through Mr. Alexandre Tokar of Edition des Cercles.

 

Commentary on Raymond Peynet's Paintings

Peynet's Lovers Series

1: "Musician in the Alcove"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 64 x 79 cm.

Commentary: In 1942, Raymond Peynet was inspired by the open-air bandstand (kiosk) in Valence, France, and drew the first illustration of "Peynet's Lovers," which was published in the magazine Ric et Rac. Peynet continued to draw lovers thereafter. The painting of lovers playing the violin in the open-air bandstand can be called the origin of Peynet's paintings. The woman is knitting for her musician lover who is playing the violin in the kiosk, and her knitting serves as sheet music. Doves are helping her by holding balls of yarn. Trees and their leaves are depicted around the kiosk. The love of the lovers and the harmony with nature, including animals and plants, are depicted in peaceful tranquility. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

2: "Mozart Concert"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 3 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: The concert at the Académie de Musique (Music Academy) is titled Mozart's Magic Flute. National music academies were established in many European countries, contributing to the promotion of music. The French Music Academy is now the Paris Opera, but this is the Music Academy of Raymond Peynet's fairytale world. Mozart stayed in Paris twice, met the king, and composed and premiered the "Paris Symphony." His mother also died in Paris, so the French feel a kinship with Mozart. The French also prefer Mozart's decorative and sophisticated music to the grand music of Beethoven and others. The Magic Flute is an opera about a prince rescuing a princess and getting married, so it perfectly fits the image of the lovers in this painting. The fact that the opera is The Magic Flute and the venue is the Paris Music Academy is also interesting, as it subtly aligns with historical facts. This is a happy work depicting Peynet's lovers leaving the venue, blessed by everyone. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

3: "Bird Basket"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 3 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Peynet's lovers face each other in a field. The man is feeding a bird nestled in the woman's bosom. The woman seems simple and unassuming. Her basket contains flowers picked from the ground. She must have come to pick these flowers. The color palette consists of close hues: transparent blue sky, green (intermediate between blue and yellow), and pink (intermediate between blue and red), creating a stable and calm harmony of colors. The light brown clothing gives a sense of serenity. In the distance, a castle-like building is depicted, but it's not a castle, but a cluster of small houses. Ordinary people live there. Does the bird nestled in her bosom want to fly to a more glamorous world with her? However, the bird seems to happily peck at what the not-so-wealthy man offers. Even if it's modest, the gentle nature and peaceful everyday life, along with a kind-looking man, bring love. Raymond Peynet's affectionate gaze can be felt. It seems that Peynet's lovers value something more important than money or honor. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

4: "Arrival of Spring"

Spring of the Four Seasons series.

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 350 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 57 x 43 cm. Frame size: 86 x 64 cm.

 

Commentary: Thrushes (uguisu) circle around the man, and primroses occupy various spots. Spring has arrived, but his beloved has not, and the man continues to wait for her. While waiting for a long time, vines have entwined around his body and the chair. The harsh winter has ended, and spring has come. After a long wait, she finally arrives. Riding on a bird, with her hair flowing in the spring breeze, she is carried by a large bird. He still doesn't know of her arrival. Where did she come from? Did she secretly slip away from a castle on a hill? The greenery of early spring is fresh. It will become a more vibrant, deep green as early summer approaches. Spring for Peynet's lovers is just around the corner. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

5: Summer Boating

Summer of the Four Seasons series.

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 350 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 57 x 43 cm. Frame size: 86 x 64 cm.

Commentary: Raymond Peynet's lovers seem to be in Venice. The woman whispers, "There are no other couples in the world who love each other as much as we do!" The man replies, "Yes, there's another couple. Look in the water!" Their embracing figures were reflected on the surface of the water. Beyond the water gate, the tower of Venice's famous St. George's Church can be seen. Europeans, deeply moved by the beauty of Venice, have been saying "See Venice and die" since ancient times. Thomas Mann, a German novelist active in the early 20th century, titled his novel "Death in Venice," which depicted the composer Gustav Mahler's feelings for a beautiful boy he met in Venice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Birds, squirrels, grasses, and trees watch over them. The simple house above the water gate suits them perfectly. Against the backdrop of Venice, the world's most beautiful water city, the world's most loving couple confirms their love in the Venetian sea and is intoxicated by it. Peynet's lovers passionately love each other in summer Venice. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 6: "Autumn Violin"

Autumn of the Four Seasons series.

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 350 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 57 x 43 cm. Frame size: 86 x 64 cm.

Commentary: Raymond Peynet's lovers sit on a giant dove, reading poetry and shedding tears. The poem they are reading is Paul Verlaine's "Autumn," a symbolist poet of the 19th century. The poem's content is about a melancholic feeling upon hearing the sound of a violin on an autumn day, which becomes even more sentimental when the sound of church bells is added. It recalls happy days gone by, bringing tears. The trees in the background are shedding their last withered leaves of the year. Angels perched on those trees play violins, giving melody to Verlaine's delicate poem. The melancholic autumn, Verlaine's poetry, and the sound of the violin, the passing season, and memories stir the heart. Even the dove on the lovers' bench has tears in its eyes. The owl, perhaps not so sentimental, just looks on with wide-open eyes. Peynet's lovers' autumn is passing by. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 7: "Snowy Bench"

Winter of the Four Seasons series.

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 350 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 57 x 43 cm. Frame size: 86 x 64 cm.

Commentary: Let's listen to the conversation of Raymond Peynet's lovers. Woman: "I want to hug you forever." Man: "Why don't you give me your flu? I'll give you my bronchitis, and we'll take the same medicine!" This is Philstember Square, behind the Saint-Germain-des-Prés church in Paris. Benches are placed in a small space in the bustling city. In summer, it's a popular spot for many people, but now snow has accumulated, and it's still snowing. Night falls, and the streetlights cast a faint glow on the white snow. People hurry home. Neither the darkness of the night nor the coldness of the snow can separate the lovers. You can feel Peynet's warm thoughts watching over the lovers. It might be Raymond Peynet's own youth. Love wins. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

8: "Love Cocktail"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: Peynet's lovers meet in the forest. In the early summer forest, a man has opened an outdoor bar. The male bartender makes cocktails, and angels and birds carry drinks. The order from the charming female customer, wearing a hat made of wild flowers, is "a cocktail with a base of morning dew, the scent of lily of the valley, mixed with the sunshine of May and your kindness." On the counter, a squirrel has just finished a cocktail. An angel waiter is about to fly off to deliver an order to a customer in the forest. An unidentified bird is pulling at the hem of the female customer's pink dress, but its intention is unclear. Above the bartender's head, two doves are embracing. On both sides of the screen, a pair of Peynet trees (trees with branches and leaves that frequently appear in Peynet's paintings) are depicted. On the ground, fragrant lilies of the valley sing and dance towards the sky. Feeling the gentle breeze of beautiful May all over their bodies, they breathe in the fresh air of the forest and stretch their arms towards the sky and the sunshine. From late April to early May, florists in Paris all line their storefronts with lilies of the valley. Lilies of the valley bring the sunshine of the early summer forest to the streets of Paris. This is a joyful Peynet world full of sunshine. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

9: "Our House"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Peynet's lovers are embracing in a small house at the foot of a hill. It's a small house where you can't even stand up without opening the roof window. Around the house is a small garden surrounded by a low fence. In the garden live cats, birds, butterflies, snails, and even a turtle has overturned. Low plants are also planted. A large palace stands on the hill. People dressed in gorgeous clothes are probably living a luxurious life in that palace. Now, let's listen to the lovers' conversation. Woman: "I'm glad we found such a lovely house. It has a garden, and you can see the sky." Poet: "It seems more luxurious than a palace when we live in it together." A peaceful and tranquil life filled with love and trust, surrounded by nature and small animals. What a fulfilling and luxurious life it is. True happiness seems to be here in Raymond Peynet's world. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

10: "The Little Prince"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 38 x 52 cm. Frame size: 64 x 79 cm.

Commentary: Raymond Peynet's lovers also meet in dreams. The man, late for their appointed time, says, "Sorry I'm late for our dream time, the Milky Way was jammed." In Saint-Exupéry's picture book, the Little Prince is a boy, but Peynet's Little Prince is a lover. Which star did he come from? Which galaxy, which star is her home planet? It might be Earth? There are about 200,000 habitable planets in the universe. Earth is 1 in 200,000. Do the inhabitants of the dream world also come from other planets? Far beyond her bed, many spires and dome roofs can be seen. Buildings like the Leaning Tower of Pisa are also visible, so it seems to be Italy. In the forest where she lives, there are birds, woodpeckers, doves, ladybugs, and Peynet trees are growing. All the usual companions of Peynet's world make a full appearance in the dream world. The bright blue and sparkling white stardust are impressive. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

11: "Timid Lover"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: Peynet's lovers, though poor, live by love. From a gap under the front door of a small, old house, a man inserts a heart-shaped sign. Is it a message of courtship? Or is it a poem dedicated to her? She watches from the window. Will his courtship be accepted? Where did he meet her? Did he see her working at a shop in town? Has he known her since childhood? How long has he thought of her? Birds and doves perched on his head and back encourage him. The trees around the poor house also watch over them. The cute flowers growing in the garden also cheer them on. I recall words I heard in Japan over 50 years ago: "Because I am poor, all I can offer you is the soft May breeze and a heart full of love. But will you marry me?" It was a line from a movie about people who live honestly and lovingly with their families, even in poverty. Has what is important remained unchanged through time? Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

12: "Two on a Picnic"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 38 x 52 cm. Frame size: 64 x 79 cm.

 

Commentary: Peynet's lovers are enjoying a picnic in a hilly park when the fresh greenery is beautiful. She seems to be listening entranced, half-closing her eyes, to the man's whispers. The soft sunlight pours down on their entire bodies, and his gentle words, backed by the chirping of birds, envelop her. If she opens her eyes, she will notice the small flowers he is offering her. In the background, a woman in a wedding dress, a man in formal attire, and elegantly dressed people are walking. They seem to be on their way to or from a wedding. This wedding party also watches the lovers from a distance. A bright blue sky spreads across the top of the canvas, and white clouds float comfortably. It's a peaceful and happy day for Raymond Peynet's lovers on a mild spring day. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

13: "Bird Market"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 38 x 52 cm. Frame size: 64 x 79 cm.

Commentary: Early summer has arrived in Peynet's world, and a woman has opened a bird market in the forest, which a man has come to visit. Birds of various colors – red, yellow, blue, and white – are being sold. Since the display counter is small, the woman of the forest is showcasing birds on the very attractive perch that protrudes from her chest. The woman calls out, "Do you see any birds you like? We have owls and doves too!" However, he seems to be captivated by the perch on the woman's chest, his gaze fixed there. The man asks, "I'd like those two small yellow birds. Would you sell me the perch with them?" Now, what will the woman's answer be? The intense red of the orange sun and the woman's suit is striking in the empty space in the middle of the branches and leaves of the pair of trees depicted in moss green. The colors of red, yellow, and pink birds and flowers fly about, creating a rhythmic sense of joy. The bright sky spreading behind the woman gives the entire painting a cheerful atmosphere. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

14: "Bird Fisherman"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 38 x 52 cm. Frame size: 64 x 79 cm.

Commentary: Peynet's lovers spend a leisurely time by the river in spring. The man is fishing by the stream. His beloved is knitting nearby. There is no fish basket for their catch nearby. Many birds are perched on the fishing rod. The birds also seem to be cheering on his fishing. Some birds are watching in the water. A peaceful day for the lovers slowly passes by the spring waterside. Small flowers bloom around the lovers, watching over them. In 1974, a French-Italian co-production, an animated film titled "Peynet's World Journey of Love," was produced, and NTT edited that animated film into a promotional video for television. In that video, the birds perched on the fishing rod flew off one after another. I yearn for a relaxed day spent by the quiet waterside, fishing. Moreover, it's a happy day with a lovely lover. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

15: "Love Catch"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 47 x 64 cm. Frame size: 72 x 791 cm.

Commentary: Peynet's lovers are facing each other in late autumn. The leaves of the deciduous trees have fallen, and only a few brown leaves remain. In the middle of the park, there is an empty open-air bandstand (kiosk), and empty chairs are scattered about. Beyond the kiosk, the park's trees are beautifully colored in golden hues. The birds, squirrels, and turtles around the lovers are also dyed in autumn colors. In the deserted park, the man is sending a passionate heart-shaped love message with wings to his beloved. She extends both hands to receive the man's heart. The heart he throws has wings. Will it fly away if it's not caught properly? Love may be passionate and intense, but perhaps it is also transient. Like the changing seasons! If it's not firmly caught and nurtured with love, winter will eventually arrive and swallow everything. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

16: "Moonlit Night of Love"

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Peynet's lovers have arrived at a seaside hotel for their honeymoon. From the window, a yacht on the sea and a hill on the opposite shore can be seen. Inside the room, a crescent moon and angels with stars and birds descend to bless the couple. The man embraces his beloved. She has wavy blonde hair and large, bright eyes. Her expression is innocent and adorable. She seems to have grown up wealthy. The man also does not appear poor. Both have the air of well-to-do young people with the leisure to go on a honeymoon to a seaside resort, making them a wealthy couple in Raymond Peynet's world. Whether poor or rich, love and happiness visit equally. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 17: "Love Express"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: A lover fell from the sky onto a small house on a hill. Upon seeing her, he said, "I realized I can't live without you." The three suitcases and an umbrella next to him seem to be all his belongings. They fit perfectly in this small house. In the sky from which the lover flew, countless heart marks remained, like jet streams. All the surrounding trees are covered in fresh greenery, and the tulips in the garden are blooming. Small wildflowers, butterflies, owls, birds, rabbits, turtles, and snails on their backs, and other hill creatures seem to be enjoying the soft spring light. Peynet's lovers' new life begins in this small house. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

18: "Hotel Ursa Minor"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

  

Commentary: Raymond Peynet's world seems to extend to heaven. The name of this hotel is Grand Hotel du Ciel et de la petite Ourse. The literal translation is "Grand Hotel of the Sky and Ursa Minor." Angels and doves greet lovers with wings on their backs. An angel asks the lovers, "One night or long-term?" In both Christianity and Greek mythology, there is no legend of Ursa Minor being connected to heaven, so this is a story from Peynet's world. Since the lovers have wings, they seem to have become angels. They probably lived good lives, simple but not doing evil, not hating, loving, and not lying. If they live in this hotel, will they become real angels with halos above their heads, like the angels who greeted them? This work has a generally calm blue-gray color tone, but the faint skin color around the angels and the orange stardust are the only warm colors. The violet of the woman's skirt is also impressive. I'd like to see inside this hotel. It must be a fun hotel. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

  

19: "Even When Wet in the Rain"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Raymond Peynet's comment on this painting is "The weather forecast says weeping willow rain will envelop the two." This park seems to be a park full of weeping willows. Weeping willows line up far into the distance. Iron chairs, found in any French park, are depicted on the park path. Under the willow in the foreground, a couple is snuggled together. An angel holds a black umbrella over them. Under that umbrella, birds are also sheltering from the rain on their arms, shoulders, and at their feet. In other willows, people are also holding black umbrellas. In Peynet's weeping willow world, lovers and birds are enjoying sheltering from the rain. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

  

20: "Forest Wedding"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Raymond Peynet's lovers are getting married. The deep forest is covered with Peynet trees (trees that appear in Peynet's paintings, not actual tree species). An angel blesses the artist-like man and the bride at their wedding. Around them, birds, doves, squirrels, and even snails participate in their love ceremony. Another couple can be seen beyond the forest. This seems to be the forest wedding venue for lovers. May this forest path be a path to happiness for all couples. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

21: "Angel Fortune-telling"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 600 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Peynet's lovers seem to be meeting in a park. The artist-like man sitting on a park bench, tired of waiting for her, has started feather fortune-telling with an angel's feather. He keeps asking "Will she come?" "Will she not?" "Does she love me?" "Does she not?" so many times that the area under the chair is filled with angel feathers. The first angel has lost almost all its feathers and is crying. The second angel also has considerably fewer feathers. Still, the angels seem to be blessing the lovers. When an angel's feather is pulled out, a new one grows back. The poet is helping the angel grow new feathers while fortune-telling. Just as new, clean wool grows after sheep are shorn, angel feathers also grow back. In a few months, a new feathered angel will appear. She, dressed in stylish pink, is already there. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

22: "Fish Airship"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 350 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 57 x 43 cm. Frame size: 86 x 64 cm.

Commentary: Lovers sit on a leaf-covered swing suspended from a giant fish airship with sleepy eyes. The woman is on the man's lap, holding the swing with one hand. The man has his arm around the woman's waist. Strange birds, like fish with wings, fly above and below the fish airship. They are unusually stout for flying fish. Perhaps they are mutated flying fish as they are flying over the sea. Medieval or early modern sailing ships float on the sea, and old-fashioned buildings are depicted on the island. The overall theme is a calm, dark blue, creating a tranquil fairytale world. Galerie Adekat, Takeda

 

23: "Heart to Heart"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Lovers sitting on a park bench show each other their hearts. Are they confiding in each other? Are they opening the windows of their hearts to let in fresh air? If our hearts also had such convenient windows, there would be no misunderstandings between loved ones. Sunken hearts and tired hearts also need to open their windows occasionally to let in clean air. Behind the two are symmetrical trees, and smaller trees on both sides create a symmetrical composition. In the back right, there is a kiosk, a bandstand symbolizing Peynet's lovers, where a musician man plays the violin sadly by himself. Birds and small wildflowers bless the lovers who bravely opened the windows of their hearts. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

24: "Lessons of Love"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: After their wedding, the couple faces each other in the bedroom at night. The man has a book open. The title of the book is "Education sentimentale." In Japanese, it would be "Emotional Education." This is the title of a novel by the 19th-century French writer Gustave Flaubert. It is a story like a memoir of a country youth's romantic entanglements in the mid-19th century, not a very puritanical philosophy. The French prefer sophisticated elegance to purity. People are polished through various experiences, but elegance may be polished through many loves. On the bed, birds, a dog, and angels, who bless Peynet's lovers, have come with bouquets. Outside the window, a dense cluster of old-fashioned buildings with dome roofs can be seen. We want to celebrate the couple's new beginning together. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

25: "Small Parasol"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: Lovers stand in front of a slightly old door. The door is symmetrical with a heart and Art Deco decoration at the top center. On both sides of the door are identical circular pillars. In front of each pillar, there are identically shaped potted plants, creating a symmetrical composition. A woman is depicted on the left and a man on the right, corresponding to this symmetrical composition. The woman's dress has a slit in the center, from which voluminous breasts protrude. The nipple holds a black umbrella. Looking closely, her breast is contained within a small house-like box. The man takes off his hat and looks at the woman's breast with respect. In French, when praising something, one says "Bravo." It means "wonderful." When deeply moved at a concert, people enthusiastically shout "Bravo." Otherwise, one also says "chapeau." Chapeau means "hat." It is an expression of respect, and in Japanese, "datsubo" (taking off one's hat) also means "wonderful" or "I'm impressed," and it means taking off one's hat in French too. The man is probably showing respect for the woman's beauty and the symbol of her charm, her breast. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

26: "Two at the Window"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: Lovers stand by the bed. The man puts his arm around the woman's waist and embraces her. Their hearts, with wings, have already flown out of their bodies and are enticing them on the bed. A pair of doves are nestled together on the pillow. By the wall above the bed, a pair of angels are also guiding them. The woman is dressed rather primly and looks tense. The man has a slightly suspicious air, more like a lover than a partner. Perhaps they are lovers with some complicated circumstances. A small castle can be seen outside the window. Since it's a castle built on flat ground, it might be a castle along the Loire River, not far from Paris. In any case, the angels are also blessing them. May happiness come to the mysterious lovers. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

27: "Birds are Watching"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: A naked blonde woman walks in a small room with an open window. The man, still dressed, is saying something. Just outside the window, a tree that always appears in Peynet's paintings spreads its large branches. Among its leaves, birds gather on the branches and look into the room. Other birds are also flying in a hurry. The woman's breasts and bottom are sexy and attractive. Perhaps she is attractive even to birds. So, what is the relationship between this beautiful nude woman and the man standing fully clothed? French people dislike formality and have no strong objection to being seen naked, so she might be an ordinary office worker. It might be fun to imagine and create a story for this painting. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

28: "Two in the Shade"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 350 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 57 x 43 cm. Frame size: 86 x 64 cm.

Commentary: In a park-like area with trees and greenery, there's a sheltered spot from wind and rain, with a pair of rattan chairs. The painting has a symmetrical composition around the center, a composition often used by Peynet. The canopy of trees also shows left-right symmetry, as do the trees in the background. The man and woman, and the rattan chairs they sit on, form a symmetrical pair. The lovers, amidst the deep green of early summer, seem to be engrossed in conversation. The woman is talking, and the man is listening to her with his head bowed. Birds of various colors are perched on the trees of the canopy. A squirrel has descended onto her rattan chair and is listening to her. Blue flowers bloom on the ground. It's a peaceful scene on a pleasant, sunny summer day. The woman's breast has been removed and the man holds it carefully. New sprouts are emerging from the woman's breast that the man holds. Has he been holding it for a very long time? Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

29: "Honeymoon Night"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: The happy wedding, celebrated by relatives and friends, is over, and it's time for the couple to be alone. Notebooks and gloves are scattered around the room. The wedding dress and veil are still on. Finally, they can relax after the tension. The woman seems to be saying something to her husband, caring for him. The man, perhaps tired, looks a bit downcast but still has his arm around her waist. On the bed pillow, two angels and two doves bless them. Their new life begins in this not-so-fancy room. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

30: "Two in the Storm"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: A fierce storm has arrived. The lovers' small, old house seems to have been blown away by the storm and caught in a tree. The window glass is broken, and the door is off its hinges. The roof is torn and has a hole, and the skylight is broken. The lovers stand on a tiny balcony, trembling in the raging storm. Around them, a girl with an umbrella is being carried away by the wind. The roofs of neighboring houses are also broken or blown off. The wind seems to be blowing from left to right, and the trees and grass are heavily distorted to the left. A cat is also surprised, being blown by the wind. Chairs and even underwear are flying in the wind. Despite being afraid, the man on the balcony firmly embraces and supports the woman. A storm is a time of trial, and their love grows stronger. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

31: "Island of Lovers"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: The party is filled with excitement. Men and women gathered on the clouds are engrossed in acts of love. Their faces are flushed pink with excitement, and their eyes are dreamy and blissful. A man's hand is on a woman's breast, another man's hand reaches for a woman's bottom, couples embrace passionately, and two people kiss. It is truly a paradise for lovers. Countless hearts fly around the lovers. A pair of doves are also embracing. The angels seem to be screaming from the heat. Below the clouds is an old architectural city, with dome roofs and spires visible. Western culture seems to value the word "passion." Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

32: "Love Sofa"

Original lithograph, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition: 250 copies and EA edition. Produced in 1985.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: Lovers sit on a sofa indoors. The woman is wearing sexy fishnet stockings. Soft breasts are exposed from the chest of her dress. The man inserts a heart between her breasts. Both seem passionate. Their faces are flushed pink. That pink resonates beautifully with the pink stripes of the sofa. The flowers in the four corners of the musician's painting of a kiosk decorating the wall, and the heart of the kiosk, resonate with the same pink. It's a symmetrical composition that Peynet favors. The ornamental plants on both sides, the sofa, and the kiosk painting are also symmetrical, and their center lines overlap with the center line of this painting. The lovers also form a symmetrical composition. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

Peynet's 12 Zodiac Series

1: "Aries (Ram: Bélier) March 21 - April 19"

Color original etching and monochrome etching, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Raymond Peynet "Aries" color version ↓

Raymond Peynet "Aries" monochrome version ↓

 

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Aries is said to be the golden flying ram sent by Zeus to rescue a prince who was about to be killed by his stepmother. As Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, people born under Aries are said to exude fresh energy. They are characterized by strong initiative and a challenging spirit, are competitive, and possess strong willpower to accomplish things. However, they tend to prioritize their instincts and assert their will, which can lead to a lack of cooperativeness and a tendency to be easily excited and then quickly lose interest.

In the center of the screen, the face of a ram is largely depicted, and the body part shows the sea and old sailing ships sailing on it. The lower right depicts buildings and a gondola symbolizing Venice. In the lower left, a man makes a gesture of courtship to a woman standing in front of a green tree. Venice during the Renaissance was a center of trade. From there, people would have embarked on sea voyages fraught with danger. This fantastical painting connects to the challenging spirit of Aries. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 2: "Taurus (Bull: Taureau) April 20 - May 20"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Zeus, the Greek god, is said to have transformed into a bull and abducted Europa, the daughter of the Phoenician king, and that bull became Taurus. People born under Taurus have a calm and peaceful personality and are cooperative, but they also possess strong will and perseverance. They are also blessed with sensitivity and enjoy owning beautiful things, so they are said to have strong materialistic desires.

A carousel is largely depicted in the center, and a bull carries lovers in the center of the carousel. It's not a carousel but a rotating bull. The roof is supported by a pair of leafless trees. Birds perch on the trees, seemingly blessing the lovers. A human face, like the sun or moon, is depicted in the center of the roof, and the world seems to be depicted below it, with Venetian buildings, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, temples of Athens, and mountains and trees. The lovers will travel around the world on the bull. A bull in a suit stands on top of the roof, waving a golden flag. Is it the guide for the lovers' world trip? Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 3: "Gemini (Twins: Gemeaux) May 21 - June 21"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Zeus, the Greek god, is said to have made Castor and Pollux, good brothers who were his children, into the constellation Gemini so that they could always be together. People born under Gemini are said to have high communication skills, strong curiosity, excellent expressive power, and initiative. They possess diverse expressive abilities in art and interesting expressions, but they also tend to get bored easily and be restless.

In the square between a pair of narrow, two-story houses, a woman stands, and twin men on both sides offer her hearts in courtship. Both houses appear small and poor. A clothesline stretched between the two houses has towels drying, and a cat, balancing with an umbrella, watches on the line, accompanied by a bird. Dome roofs and spires are visible between the houses. This may be within an old city. The moon is out in the sky, casting a soft light. This might be just the right brightness for this modest courtship scene of the twins. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

4: "Cancer (Crab: Cancer) June 22 - July 22"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: In Greek mythology, the crab monster crushed by the hero Heracles is said to have become the constellation Cancer. People born under Cancer are said to be affectionate and caring for family and friends, so they do not show their rich emotions but are considerate of those around them. On the other hand, they tend to react coolly to people they don't get along with.

A gigantic crab with a heart-shaped shell is depicted filling the entire screen. Inside the heart-shaped shell, there is a mountain of buildings with spires and dome roofs, symbolizing the medieval world. In the sea below, old sailing ships, islands, and a volcanic island emitting smoke are depicted. A balloon and clouds float comfortably in the sky. If you look closely, the outer shell surrounding this world is a green field with countless plants growing. Lovers stand on the legs below the shell, and the man proposes to the woman with a love flower with a dangling heart. Flowers and leaves decorate the crab's legs like a garland. The moon is depicted in the upper right of the screen, and the sun in the upper left, watching over the world and the lovers. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

 5: "Leo (Lion: Leo) July 23 - August 22"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Leo is said to be the man-eating lion defeated by the hero Heracles. People born under Leo are said to be strong like a lion, glamorous, proud, and perform well when noticed by others. They have a strong sense of justice and are reliable, but they can also become self-centered when their pride is hurt.

The face of a lion and its mane are depicted across the entire canvas. The powerful presence of the king of lions is overwhelmingly expressed. Below the face of the king of lions, the world is depicted. Several islands, covered with medieval buildings, are symbolically drawn, and medieval sailing ships are also depicted, so it seems like the sea, but the islands are covered with clouds, so it also looks like an aerial city. The sailing ships might also be airships. Lovers are embracing on a cloud or a cloud-like island near the lower part of the lion's mane, passionately embracing. They must feel safe under the watchful eye of the king. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

6: "Virgo (Virgin = Vierge) August 23 - September 22"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching.

Hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Virgo is said to be Demeter, the goddess of harvest and sister of Zeus, the Greek god. People born under Virgo possess both the dreamy delicacy of a young girl and a practical side that steadily realizes ideals. They respect social conventions and rules, so they tend to be harsh towards those who defy them.

Among the trees in the park, a beautiful, pure, and slightly stern woman, like a nun, stands holding lovers. Considering the size of the lovers, she must be about 3 meters tall. She might be a goddess rather than a human. Behind her, between the branches of the trees, a heart-shaped sky, believed to be an otherworldly space, is depicted, with doves flying. The lovers, symbolizing love, and the doves, symbolizing peace, probably represent the goddess's ideals. Medieval travelers in costume and medieval-style buildings can be glimpsed among the trees. Small animals and flowers also seem to be participating in this world of love and peace. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

7: "Scorpio (Scorpion) October 24 - November 22"

 

Commentary: In Greek mythology, the goddess Gaia, angered by the arrogant giant Orion, had a scorpion kill Orion. That scorpion is said to have become the constellation Scorpio. People born under Scorpio are said to be reserved and not outwardly emotional, but deeply affectionate, with excellent concentration, endurance, and insight. They are devoted to those they trust but can be jealous and aggressive towards adversaries.

A gigantic scorpion with large eyes is depicted, its tail thrust into the air, ready for battle. Lovers sit intimately on its coiled tail. The woman looks at the man with a passionate expression and touches his body, typical of an affectionate Scorpio woman. The ground where the scorpion lies seems to be sandy, but steep rocks are exposed. The distant scenery also shows castles and spires built on islands surrounded by steep rocks. It looks like the sea and islands visible from the sandy beach where the scorpion is. A yellow sun or moon is depicted in the sky, blessing the lovers along with small animals like birds and flowers. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

 

8: Sagittarius (Archer: Sagittaire) November 23 - December 21

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm. 

 

In Greek mythology, Sagittarius is said to be the centaur Chiron, a master archer who is half human and half horse, drawing his bow. People born under Sagittarius are said to have a strong adventurous and inquisitive spirit, think deeply, are not bound by conventional ideas, and act freely and energetically. They are easily enthusiastic and just as easily lose interest, so they may have a tendency to change romantic partners frequently, like a hunter of love, so beware!

From the center of the bottom of the screen, a large tree, probably over 100 years old, extends. The large tree branches into many smaller branches midway, growing like vines and forming a large circle with its leaves. Within that circle of branches and leaves, many buildings, seemingly medieval or ancient, are densely clustered. Buildings that appear to be the Roman Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are also present. In front of the large tree, a man who is half human and half horse, and a woman holding a small package are depicted. He aims an arrow to capture the woman's heart, but she keeps a slight distance, perhaps wary of his fickle nature. The package in the woman's hand might contain a secret weapon to counter him.

9: "Capricorn (Goat: Capricorne) December 22 - January 19"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Pan, the god of pasturage, was chased by a monster and jumped into a river, attempting to transform into a fish, but only his tail became a fish. Zeus is said to have seen Pan and placed him in the heavens as Capricorn. People born under Capricorn are said to have a serious and practical nature, patiently undertaking everything and possessing strong willpower to see things through to the end.

In the myth, Capricorn's lower body became a fish, but in Peynet's Capricorn, it is a conch shell floating in the air. Lovers are embracing inside the conch shell, enjoying an aerial stroll together. Cupid, who seems to have brought these lovers together, holds an umbrella over them. This goat and the lovers seem to be very high up, as stars fall from above, and the moon and cities of the Earth are visible far below. The woman clings desperately to the man. Is it love for the man, or fear of falling from the shell airship? The woman is probably entrusting herself to the reliable and practical Capricorn man. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

  

10: "Aquarius (Water Bearer: Verseau) January 20 - February 18"

Color original etching & monochrome original etching, hand-signed by the artist. Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: In Greek mythology, the beautiful boy Ganymede, abducted by Zeus, the Greek god, to serve wine, is said to have become a constellation. People born under Aquarius have original and artistic sensibilities, so they go at their own pace and show no interest in their surroundings, appearing cool, but in fact, they are philanthropists who are kind to everyone. They dislike confinement and act freely, so they are often misunderstood by others.

From an upstairs window, a man tips a water jug, scattering many hearts contained within. A downstairs window is also open, and a woman gazes dreamily at the shower of hearts. Birds pull at the chest of the woman's clothing with their beaks from left and right, exposing her attractive bust. Another bird perched on the window grille, along with the other birds, is captivated by the woman's beauty. Many clouds float around this window and between the windows. These upper and lower windows seem to be floating in the air. The flowers on the window shutters outside the window also appear to be floating in the air near the shutters rather than attached to them. For artistic Aquarians who love freedom, living in the air might be more comfortable than in an earthly building. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

  

11: "Pisces (Fish: Poissons) February 19 - March 20"

Original etching, hand-signed by the artist.

Limited edition of 250 and EA. Produced in 1978.

Image size: 52 x 38 cm. Frame size: 76 x 61 cm.

 

Commentary: In Greek mythology, Pisces is said to be the two fish, tied together with a cord, representing Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, and her son Eros. They tied themselves together with a cord to avoid being separated when attacked by a monster at a party on the Nile River. People born under Pisces are romantic and tolerant, gentle and thoughtful towards others, and value harmony, but they can also be easily influenced by others and appear indecisive. Their gentleness can also lead to instability.

In legend, they are mother and son, but in this painting, they are depicted as lovers who are half-fish. The angel holding an umbrella over the lovers has also transformed into a half-fish. A large sailing ship is depicted, but it seems to be at the bottom of the sea, and fish, shells, starfish, sea snakes, and seahorses appear under and around the ship. However, the half-fish lovers seem to be floating in the air, with the sun depicted behind them. In the distance, a water city is depicted, with architectural structures such as St. Mark's Basilica and the spire of St. George's Church in Venice, as well as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The artist offers his hand in courtship, but the woman looks down, unable to decide. Galerie Adekat, Yasuhiro Takeda

 

Links

Antibes Peynet Museum　

Brassac Peynet Museum　

Karuizawa Peynet Museum

Sakuto Museum (Peynet Museum)　

Valentine Park (Holy Site for Lovers)

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Peynet's Monument of Love and Peace

Blog: Raymond Peynet Love and Peace

Raymond Peynet Collection

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