Henri Le Riche, “La Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims”, c. 1900

Henri Le Riche (also known by the pseudonym Hirné) (1868–1944)

“La Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims”, circa 1900

Technical Details & Condition:

Etching with drypoint and aquatint on tissue-thin buff Japanese paper, pencil-signed by the artist at lower right and laid upon a backing sheet to give support and generous margins. This is a superb proof-state impression created before the addition of lettering, distinguished with two remarque images in the lower margin: on the left, a kneeling female with her hands clasped at her knees; on the right, a figure mounted statuesquely on horseback (possibly facing backwards), banishing a sword. Aside from a pencil notation on the lower edge at left, the sheet is in pristine condition—free of tears, holes, folds, abrasions, stains, or signs of handling.

The etching depicts the renowned Reims Cathedral in France, celebrated for its iconic façade and historically significant as the traditional coronation site of French kings. Tragically, this spectacular Gothic monument suffered damage when it was bombed and burned in September 1914 during the First World War. Fortunately, the cathedral was rebuilt in 1938; however, the stained-glass windows were remodelled rather than faithfully replicated from the medieval originals. For more detailed information about the history and significance of Reims Cathedral, visit Reims Cathedral - UNESCO World Heritage Centre (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/601/).

Dimensions:

• Sheet: 51.2 x 35.4 cm
• Platemark: 37.1 x 25 cm

Price & Shipping:

AU$271 (approximately US$184.45 / €157.76 / £137.41), including worldwide express shipping. Please note that import duties and taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.

If you are interested in acquiring this pencil signed, proof-state large etching of the magnificent Reims Cathedral, please contact me at oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I am happy to provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless purchase.