Mary Golay (1869–1944) – Byzantine Temptation – Large Art Nouveau Colour Lithograph – Circa 1900 – With Original Frame Details Artist: Mary Golay (1869–1944) Switzerland Title: Byzantine Temptation Period: Circa 1900 Technique: Colour lithograph on paper Signature: Signed in the plate, lower left Dimensions (with frame): 99 × 41 cm Frame: Original period frame Condition: Fair to good Several old tears, reinforced from the back Accident at the lower left corner near the signature Original frame preserved Glass removed for easier and safer transport Description (English) Elegant and refined colour lithograph by Mary Golay, a distinguished Swiss artist of the Art Nouveau movement. This composition, Byzantine Temptation, exemplifies Golay’s fascination with ornamental beauty, sensual grace, and the spiritual mystique of the Belle Époque. The work depicts a woman draped in richly patterned fabrics, surrounded by stylised floral motifs and intricate Byzantine-inspired ornamentation. The harmony of lines, the golden hues, and the delicate interplay of curves evoke the influence of Alphonse Mucha and Georges de Feure, while preserving Golay’s distinctive softness and poetic sensibility. Despite minor restorations and an old accident near the signature, the lithograph retains its full decorative power and chromatic brilliance. Presented in its original frame, which enhances the authenticity and period charm of the piece. The glass has been removed for safe transportation. A rare and evocative example of Mary Golay’s Art Nouveau mastery — a true collector’s piece, combining elegance, symbolism, and timeless allure. Description (Français) Superbe lithographie couleur de Mary Golay, artiste suisse emblématique de l’Art Nouveau. Cette œuvre intitulée Byzantine Temptation illustre à merveille la fascination de l’artiste pour l’ornement, la féminité et la spiritualité décorative de la Belle Époque. La composition met en scène une figure féminine gracieuse, drapée de tissus somptueux aux motifs byzantins, se détachant sur un fond floral stylisé. L’harmonie des lignes, la richesse des teintes dorées et la douceur du modelé rappellent les créations d’Alphonse Mucha ou de Georges de Feure, tout en conservant la sensibilité propre à Mary Golay. L’œuvre présente plusieurs anciennes déchirures, solidifiées par l’arrière, ainsi qu’un petit accident à l’angle inférieur gauche près de la signature. Elle est conservée dans son cadre d’origine, dont la patine ancienne renforce le charme d’époque. Le verre a été retiré pour faciliter et sécuriser le transport. Une pièce rare et poétique, témoignage du talent de Mary Golay et de l’élégance intemporelle de l’Art Nouveau. Biography – Mary Golay (1869–1944) Mary Golay was a Swiss painter, illustrator, and poster artist active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She studied in Geneva and Paris, where she absorbed the decorative and symbolic aesthetics of the Art Nouveau movement. Her works often depict graceful female figures surrounded by floral and ornamental motifs, rendered in soft, luminous tones. Golay’s lithographs and posters were exhibited in Switzerland and France, contributing to the visual poetry of the Belle Époque alongside artists such as Mucha, Livemont, and Henri Meunier. Today, her works are highly sought after for their rarity and refined beauty. Byzantine Temptation stands as a remarkable example of her artistic vision — a synthesis of elegance, sensuality, and spiritual refinement. Expédition Envoi soigné et sécurisé Verre non inclus (retiré pour le transport) Emballage professionnel adapté aux œuvres d’art Expédition internationale avec suivi disponible