P.D.". Échantillons de papier peint - Wallpaper samples [Peacocks].

P. D." [Paul Dumas, Paris, ca. 1930]. A fine set of three very large sheets (119 x 73 cm each) with pochoir designs with flowers and birds, for wallpaper or similar ornamental purposes. An exceedingly rare collection of very large original wall-paper artwork. The pochoir process involves the application of gouache or watercolour pigments through the medium of stencils by which many different colours could be applied layer after layer to a single print. The patterns show an interesting variety in colour, based on the same design. This is an (early) work of the French firm of Paul Dumas (operative from 1906 to 1978), renowned for its high-quality wallpaper and wallpaper design. The designs remind of the work of Paul Poiret, who worked for Dumas. Poiret (1879-1944) "...was a leading French fashion designer during the first two decades of the 20th century. His contributions to his field have been likened to Picasso's legacy in 20th-century art" (Wikipedia). In all, this forms an extraordinary ephemeral collection of practical design in pattern and coloration. A few skilful repairs, yet largely in its original state and in a very good condition especially given the size and age. The colouring vivid and bright, it must be seen!