This original charcoal drawing by Alexandre Moulis, signed and dated 1953, is an especially desirable example of the artist's graphic work, as dated drawings are relatively uncommon within his oeuvre.
Rendered with Moulis's characteristic economy of line, the composition depicts two figures seen from behind. The smaller figure suggests a young girl, while the taller companion, wrapped in an ample coat or cape and wearing what appears to be a bonnet or headscarf, may be interpreted as a nursemaid, housekeeper or domestic attendant. Rather than presenting a formal portrait, the artist captures a fleeting moment of everyday life with remarkable immediacy.
Broad charcoal strokes and subtle hatching define the folds of the garments, while the warm tone of the paper enhances the contrast of the rich black lines. The composition balances spontaneity with a strong sense of rhythm, demonstrating Moulis's gift for conveying movement through remarkably few marks.
Beyond its graphic quality, the drawing evokes the social customs and fashions of post-war France, offering a sensitive glimpse into everyday relationships and urban life during the early 1950s. Both visually refined and quietly narrative, it will appeal to collectors of French Mid-Century works on paper as well as interior designers seeking authentic, understated modern art.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Technique: Original charcoal drawing on paper
Date: 1953
Dimensions: 12 × 20 cm
Framed dimensions: 30 × 40 cm in a wooden frame
Signature: Signed and dated lower left
Condition: Good condition
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Alexandre Moulis was a French artist active during the mid-twentieth century. While employed as an engineering draftsman for the French railway system in Toulouse, he developed a highly personal artistic practice devoted to observing everyday life. Carrying small sheets of paper wherever he went, he recorded passersby, cafés, streets and ordinary moments with remarkable spontaneity.
His drawings are distinguished by their expressive economy of means. Working primarily in charcoal, graphite and watercolor, Moulis captured gesture, movement and atmosphere rather than descriptive detail. His work belongs to the long French tradition of observational drawing, where a few confident lines are sufficient to convey both character and emotion.
Although little known during his lifetime, Moulis is now attracting increasing interest among collectors seeking overlooked French artists of the post-war period. His works on paper offer an authentic and deeply human record of daily life in mid-century France, combining documentary value with exceptional graphic sensitivity. Signed and dated drawings such as this example are particularly appreciated for their documentary significance within his body of work.
FRAME AND SHIPPING
This artwork is sold framed and ready to hang.
The artwork is professionally packed to ensure maximum protection during transit. All shipments are fully insured and include tracking.
KEYWORDS
Alexandre Moulis, French charcoal drawing, signed drawing, dated drawing, 1963 drawing, original work on paper, figurative drawing, nursemaid, housekeeper, domestic attendant, young girl, French street scene, Mid-Century French art, post-war France, expressive charcoal, gestural drawing, observational drawing, works on paper, black and white artwork, French modernism, everyday life, vintage fashion, interior design, framed artwork, collectible drawing