LITTLE BAROQUE ANGEL. An original pencil sketch for the cover illustration of Andelicek z Baroku [Little Baroque Angel] by Josef Hais Týnecký.

Pencil on heavy paper mounted on card. Picturing a beautifully rendered cherub surrounded by a stunning mass of flowers, foliage, and baroque-style ornamentation, all arranged around the author's name, the title, and publisher, wonderfully showcasing Mucha's characteristic delicate yet confident line-work. The drawing itself measures 29 x 35cm while the mounted paper measures 32.5cm x 37cm. Signed in pencil to the right of the cherub's foot. With two authentication / provenance ink stamps to the reverse. Mounted, framed and glazed using archival materials.

Mucha is known for his distinctive strong, sweeping, curved lines and natural motifs. His work has become the most loved and recognised representation of Art Nouveau, and continues to have a lasting impact on visual arts today. This original drawing offers a fascinating, intimate look at the artist's accomplished use of pencil. The first edition of Andelicek z Bariku, for which Mucha provided this cover illustration, an illustrated title leaf, ornamental or figurative text frames and 37 vignette or tail pieces, was published in 1929 in an edition of 200 numbered copies, each signed by the author and the artist. Provenance: Z umelecke pozustalosti ("From artistic inheritance, Alfonse Muchy") ink stamp on verso; "Narodni Galerie V Praze, vývoz" ("National Gallery Prague, export") ink stamp on verso; Rizzoli Bookstore, New York, December 1973; private US collection.