Fernand Léger
Composition with Yellow Background
Lithograph, 1954
Edition: 59/75
Publisher: Galerie Louise Leiris (Paris)
Printer: Atelier Mourlot (Paris)
Catalogue: Saphire 138
Paper size: 50 × 65 cm
Image size: 44 × 56 cm
Signed by the artist in pencil
Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
Condition: Excellent
Fernand Léger (1881–1955) was one of the earliest practitioners of Cubism in the early 20th century. His style is sometimes referred to as "Tubism," named after the tubular forms found in his motifs. In 1925, he established his reputation by exhibiting at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, at the "Pavilion de l'Esprit Nouveau" designed by Le Corbusier.
This work takes tree trunks as its motif. This is a recurring theme in Léger's work, inspired by his Tubist period in the 1910s. In the 1930s, he also added "root" motifs with rounded, flexible forms, like creeping plants.
Although this lithograph was produced in 1954, its prototype dates back to 1952. It belongs to a prolific period from 1948 until his death in 1955, during which he created approximately 20 lithographs. Léger prioritized the precise reproduction of color and trusted the Mourlot workshop in Paris for his printing.
In this work, a vibrant yellow is used as the background, highlighting the trunk motif rendered in green and brown. These highly stylized, almost abstract forms evoke the metal beams of construction sites that Léger frequently depicted.
On the left side of the composition, brown forms are fitted into black, beam-like shapes, suggesting mechanical assembly. Combining different forms to construct a harmonious whole—that was Léger's interest. This work possesses a completeness that suggests a robust structure.
Furthermore, delicate line drawings of hatching and guilloche add a tension reminiscent of pen and ink. Long gray touches placed on the black beams evoke light reflecting off metal pipes, creating volume and depth. It also demonstrates how closely lithography as a printmaking technique resembles painting.
About Fernand Léger
Fernand Léger (1881–1955) was a leading French modern painter of the early 20th century. While influenced by Cubism, he established his own unique style, known for its powerful forms centered on **the "contrast" of form, color, and volume.**
After his experiences in World War I, he developed a "mechanical style" that incorporated modern motifs such as machines and cities. Post-war, his work evolved to include more vibrant colors and voluminous human figures, creating clear and vital compositions.
Beyond painting, he was active in a wide range of fields including murals, stage design, and collaborations with architecture, leaving a significant mark on the development of modern art.
