Willy 1859-1931 Colette 1873-1954 and Polaire 1879-1939
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About Reproduction
Bring the timeless beauty of Georges Goursat Sem's Willy 1859-1931 Colette 1873-1954 and Polaire 1879-1939 into your home with a handmade oil painting reproduction. Carefully recreated on canvas by skilled artists using traditional techniques, this piece captures the delicate brushwork, subtle light, and vibrant color of the original masterpiece. With museum-level quality and rich texture, it brings elegance and artistic depth to any space. Enjoy free shipping and make this masterpiece a part of your personal collection.
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Original Description
This captivating portrait by French caricaturist Georges Goursat (known as Sem) immortalizes three iconic figures of Belle Époque Paris: writer Willy (Henry Gauthier-Villars), his then-wife Colette (later the celebrated novelist), and music hall star Polaire. Executed in Sem's distinctive style combining fluid penmanship with sharp psychological insight, the artwork pulsates with the decadent energy of fin-de-siècle Montmartre. Sem masterfully captures Willy's intellectual swagger, Colette's proto-feminist intensity, and Polaire's theatrical flamboyance - the latter famously known for her 14-inch corseted waist. The composition reflects the artist's celebrated talent for revealing social truths through deceptively breezy caricature, making this work historically significant as both artistic achievement and cultural document. Preserved in the Musée Carnavalet, it represents Sem's pivotal role in bridging serious portraiture and satirical illustration during Paris's golden age of café society.
For contemporary display, this artwork would elevate any sophisticated interior with its timeless Parisian chic. Consider hanging it in a study or lounge area where its intellectual bohemian vibe can inspire conversation - perhaps above a tufted velvet settee or vintage writing desk. The monochromatic elegance pairs beautifully with Art Nouveau furnishings or modern minimalist decor, while its intimate scale (typical of Sem's works at roughly 12×16 inches) suits gallery wall arrangements or standalone prominence in a lacquered frame. Complement its graphic lines with jewel-toned accessories in emerald or ruby red, echoing Polaire's stage costumes, while maintaining ample negative space to let Sem's expressive linework shine as the focal point. In corporate settings, it would lend creative flair to publishing houses or design studios seeking historical artistic connections.
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Lead Time & Shipping
When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.
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Return & Refund
We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.















































