Olifant met fles (Elephant with Bottle) - Theo van Hoytema

A striking Art Nouveau illustration by Theo van Hoytema, 'Olifant met fles' (Elephant with Bottle) features a stylised elephant holding a bottle, framed by a decorative peanut border. A quirky and elegant addition to any room.

This striking illustration, 'Olifant met fles' (Elephant with Bottle) by Dutch artist Theo van Hoytema, dates to 1917, the year of his death. Van Hoytema, a key figure in the Dutch Art Nouveau movement, was renowned for his stylised depictions of nature, often incorporating elements of symbolism and humour. This work exemplifies his unique approach, presenting an elephant in a somewhat surreal and whimsical context. The image features a large elephant rendered in shades of grey and black, standing on a field of green. The elephant holds a small bottle in its trunk, adding an element of playful absurdity. The composition is framed by a decorative border featuring stylised peanuts and foliage, rendered in a limited colour palette of black, green, and yellow. The overall effect is both decorative and slightly unsettling, characteristic of Art Nouveau's embrace of the unconventional. As a fine art print, 'Olifant met fles' brings a touch of quirky elegance to any interior. Its bold lines and distinctive colour scheme make it a visually arresting piece, suitable for a living room, study, or hallway. The print's historical significance and unique artistic style make it a conversation starter, appealing to those with an appreciation for both art history and distinctive design.