"Carnival / Seduction"
1920 / 1921
Louis Icart’s works “Carnival” and “Seduction” belong to his renowned “Carnival” series, created in 1920–1921 using drypoint with hand-coloring. Published by American publisher F. H. Brester, they embody the Art Deco spirit, featuring elegant and sensual images of women in theatrical and festive scenes. The series captures the carnival atmosphere—vibrant events tied to masquerades, dances, and luxury. Icart masterfully conveys joy and sophistication, using a technique that gives each print depth and uniqueness. Created after World War I, the series symbolizes the revival of 1920s Parisian culture. Returning to civilian life, Icart depicted graceful women in lavish attire, reflecting the era’s optimism. Brester, from Milwaukee, popularized Icart in the U.S. with limited-edition prints, emphasizing their exclusivity. The works, infused with symbolism and subtle eroticism, portray women in carnival and mythological settings, exuding refinement. Released in two editions—European (L’Estampe Moderne) and American (Brester)—they ensured Icart’s transcontinental success, blending European aesthetics with the American market.
