Erich Hermès (1881-1971) - Alain

Eric HERMÈS (1881-1971) – "Alain"

Original Charcoal / Pencil Drawing on Paper

Description of the work:
Fascinating and vigorous original drawing on paper by the Swiss master Eric Hermès (1881–1971), a prominent figure in Swiss art of the first half of the 20th century. The work is a portrait entitled "Alain", depicting the eponymous male figure crouched with his back turned. The piece is characterized by a strong, geometric, essential graphic stroke, typical of Hermès’ famous output related to mural painting and early 20th century large-scale billboard art.

The artist demonstrates in this sheet extraordinary mastery of line and volumetric synthesis: the plastic pose and the strong rendering of chiaroscuro give Alain’s figure a sculptural quality.

On the back of the sheet there is valuable historical documentation applied to the closing carton: an original clipping from the Swiss daily newspaper "La Suisse" celebrating the artist’s ninetieth birthday, with an contemporaneous note recalling his death in 1971.

Technical Details & Certification
Artist: Eric Hermès (1881-1971) – A renowned Swiss painter, illustrator and billboard artist, trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Geneva and author of important public commissions.
Title of the work: "Alain" (titled by the artist at bottom left).
Subject: Portrait of a male figure ("Alain") crouched with back turned.
Technique: Charcoal / soft pencil on paper.
Signature/Monogram: Clearly signed at bottom right with the artist’s distinctive monogram: "E.H".
Size with frame 46x40 cm; without frame 28x23 cm

Documentation on the back: The back of the frame constitutes an important documentary and historical element, bearing the era-printed clipping with biography and portrait of the painter, along with handwritten inventory and catalog numbers.
Framing: The work is presented within an elegant two-tone passe-partout customized and protected by a dark gray aluminum-finish mount, equipped with glass.
State of Preservation

The drawing is in good overall condition. The paper shows a natural and uniform browning from age that enhances the contrast and warmth of the dark charcoal line. The frame and the passe-partout are in excellent condition, ready for display.

Terms and Conditions of Sale
Note on the frame
If the work is accompanied by a frame, offered as a courtesy to the buyer. Please note that the frame is not an integral part of the lot, does not determine its value, and is not insured. Any imperfections or damage caused during transport to the frame will not be subject to claims, disputes, or reimbursement.

Logistics and Shipping
Each shipment is handled with professional packaging protocols to ensure maximum protection of the work. The item is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
International Shipping: For all shipments to foreign countries, including European Union member states, the buyer is fully responsible for any duties, import VAT, and ancillary charges. Please note that customs clearance procedures are mandatory for exporting from Switzerland and may result in longer delivery times.
In-person Pickup: I welcome direct pickup in Geneva. This option is strongly recommended as it eliminates risks associated with handling and transport of artworks.