Gerardus Maria Rutten Sold at Auction Prices

GERARD RUTTEN (1902-1982). TENTOONSTELLUNG KERKELYKE EN PROFANE. 1923. 50x27 inches, 127x69 cm. J. Smulders en Co.

GERARD RUTTEN (1902-1982) TENTOONSTELLUNG KERKELYKE EN PROFANE. 1923. 50 1/4x27 1/4 inches, 127 1/2x69 cm. J. Smulders en Co. Condition B+: repaired tears, creases and restoration in margins and image; restored loss and overpainting in bottom margin slightly affecting text. Two sheets. Primarily known as a set designer and a film director, Rutten's graphic legacy is three known posters. To advertise an exhibition of religious and secular art he uses an archetypal Dutch style (combining the best elements of Jan Toroop and R.N. Roland-Holst), in black and white, designed within a strict geometric frame. The almost abstract representation of the woman, prophet and warrior, shows the artist's familiarity with the classic Dutch Art Nouveau style, yet bespeaks a more contemporary Art Deco sensibility and an understanding of Cubism.