Medium: Painted wood
Dimensions: 95.25 in high x 90 in wide x 1.8 in deep
Signed: P. A. Ekman
P.A. Ekman was a multi-talented artist working in France during the mid-20th century. In addition to being a fine artist of some note, his practice encompassed decorative painting, illustration and mirror design. Not unlike his contemporary José María Sert, whose recent exhibition at the Petit Palais allowed the public to rediscover his work, Ekman’s original and striking decorative and fine art is resurfacing to take its rightful place in the history of art and design.
Within the context of design, Ekman worked with designers such as René Drouet to realize their visions. His work with Drouet on a lavish Parisian interior during the 1940s is a fine example of Ekman’s strength of style and versatility. Faux finishes and trompe l’oeil are paired with landscape painting to create a sumptuous environment full of whimsy and wonder.