George Barbier

George Barbier

George Barbier, a leading light of the Art Deco movement, wasn't just an artist; he was a conjurer of dreams. Born in Nantes, France, in 1882, Barbier initially trained at the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts, becoming known for his vibrant illustrations, fashion designs, and theatrical costumes. But what set Barbier apart was his ability to capture the zeitgeist of the Roaring Twenties, a period of unprecedented glamour and societal change. He didn't just depict the era; he embodied it. Barbier's work graced the pages of prestigious magazines like Vogue and Gazette du Bon Ton, setting the standard for elegance and sophistication. His pochoir prints, with their bold colours and intricate details, became highly sought after. Beyond fashion, Barbier designed sets and costumes for the Folies Bergère and illustrated books for authors like Charles Baudelaire, showcasing his versatility and artistic range. He moved effortlessly between commercial and fine art, blurring the lines between the two. Though his life was cut short in 1932, George Barbier's legacy endures. His images continue to evoke the spirit of Art Deco, reminding us of a time when beauty, luxury, and artistic innovation reigned supreme. Owning a Barbier print is like owning a piece of that bygone era, a daily reminder of the power of art to transport and inspire.