Empedocles and Panthea (1929) fashion illustration by George Barbier

Empedocles and Panthea (1929) — George Barbier

Myth meets modern line. Barbier stages the philosopher and his muse with Art Deco poise—profiles like cameos, drapery reduced to elegant geometry, ornament pared to a whisper. The result is cool, theatrical luxury: a scene where classical allegory slips seamlessly into 1920s couture grace. This fine-art print brings a composed, fashion-forward drama to any room.

Why it captivates

• Art Deco refinement — distilled line, balanced masses, luxurious restraint.

• Classical allegory, modern style — Hellenic poise filtered through couture elegance.

• Pochoir spirit — rich flat colour and razor-clean contours that sing at scale.

• Graphic harmony — negative space and pattern in crisp conversation.

• Timeless palette — refined tones that pair with timber, linen, and brass.

• Statement artwork — a sophisticated focal point for salons, dressing areas, and studios.

What you’ll see

Two figures arranged with frieze-like clarity—sleek evening drapery, stylised accessories, measured ground with Deco accents. Up close: immaculate contour and delicate patterning. From a step back: a serene, fashion-forward tableau with unmistakable 1920s poise.

A richer historical frame

Illustrator George Barbier (1882–1932) helped define the look of interwar Paris—books, portfolios, and magazine plates that celebrated couture through the deluxe pochoir tradition. Dated 1929, Empedocles and Panthea fuses classical subject matter with the era’s graphic modernity: polished line, sumptuous colour, and a cool, composed sense of luxury.

Choose your finish

🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp detail, minimal glare.

💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Sealed in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate, edge-to-edge. Durable, wipe-clean—perfect for busy spaces.

🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Lacquered natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for rich tone and fine detail.

🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

Size (W × H)

724 × 841 mm (approx. 28.50 × 33.11 in)

• Orientation: Portrait

• Aspect ratio: ~0.861 : 1

• Nearest standard frame: A0 portrait (841 × 1189 mm) with a custom mat

• Framing tips:

  • Classic: cut the mat window to ~720 × 837 mm for a clean 2–3 mm edge overlap.

  • Contemporary: float-mount within an A0 frame for a generous gallery reveal.

Custom sizing: Available on request (alternative aspect ratios or added white border).

Specifications

Who it’s for

• Art Deco devotees and fashion-history lovers

• Stylists & collectors curating sleek, glamorous interiors

• Boutiques & dressing rooms seeking couture atmosphere

• Gift-givers celebrating weddings, anniversaries, and milestone birthdays

Our Commitment

Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then hand-checked and packed so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.

Let classical poise meet Deco glamour—order your fine-art print of Barbier’s Empedocles and Panthea today.