Printing blocks - Switzerland

Original woodcut Printing block by Hans Sandreuter (1850–1901) – Helvetia with the 12 Cantons

Very rare, large-format work of Basel painter and graphic artist Hans Sandreuter (Basel 1850 – Riehen 1901), created around 1897.

Unique piece, probably produced in the period when he designed his residence and studio house “Mohrhalde,” where he created carved wall decorations in the dining room and sitting room (1897/98).

Motif:
Patriotic-allegorical representation of seated Helvetia, who lays both hands on two large circles, with the numbers 1 and 2, a symbol for the 12 cantons of the Helvetic Republic (1798–1803), when Switzerland first organized as a unified state with 12 cantons.

At the top the inscription “Helvetia,” below the Alpine mountain range. At the bottom two meandering squares, each with a large Swiss cross.

A powerful, historically oriented composition that reflects the spirit of the emerging Swiss national consciousness in the late 19th century.

The block cannot be assigned to any competition or commission. It likely arose within the framework of his woodcut activities around 1896-1899.

Techniques & Dimensions:
• Original book-print woodblock
• Dimensions: 40.2 × 39.6 cm
• Thickness: 18 mm
• Made from 4 boards cleanly glued together
(typical of the workshop practice of the time)
• With characteristic old wormholes

Provenance:
From the estate of Marguerite Sandreuter-Siegmund, wife of the artist. Hans Sandreuter was a prominent Swiss painter and graphic artist of the fin de siècle.

Such large-format, hand-engraved blocks from his estate are extremely rare and form a fascinating link between art and Swiss national history.

Condition:
Good, original preserved condition. The printing side is cleanly and finely cut; the reverse shows signs of wear and old wormholes.

Weight: 1510 g