Artist: Jean Cocteau (French, 1880-1963)
Titles: "Les Parents Terribles" and "Bacchus"
Year: 1957
Medium: Lithograph Printed in Colours
Printer: Atelier Mourlot, Paris
Publisher: Grasset
Dimensions: Each 22 cm x 14 cm (8.7 in x 5.5 in)

Description:
This auction features two lithographs by Jean Cocteau from 1957, titled "Les Parents Terribles" and "Bacchus." Both pieces are printed in vibrant colors by the renowned Atelier Mourlot in Paris and published by Grasset. They exemplify Cocteau’s distinctive artistic style and his engagement with both literary and mythological themes.

"Les Parents Terribles" reflects Cocteau’s whimsical and dramatic interpretation, inspired by his celebrated play of the same name. This piece captures the play’s intense emotional dynamics and theatrical flair.
"Bacchus" depicts the Roman god of wine and revelry, showcasing Cocteau’s fascination with mythological subjects and his ability to blend classical themes with modern artistic expression.
Each lithograph measures 22 cm by 14 cm (8.7 in by 5.5 in), offering a compact yet impactful visual representation of Cocteau’s artistic vision.

About the Artist:
Jean Cocteau (1880-1963) was a multifaceted French artist known for his work as a poet, playwright, novelist, designer, and filmmaker. His unique style is characterized by its blend of surrealism, neoclassicism, and modernism, reflecting his diverse creative interests and his ability to traverse different artistic domains.

Cocteau’s most famous works include the surrealist film "La Belle et la Bête" (1946), the avant-garde play "Les Parents Terribles" (1938), and his poetry collections. His art often explores themes of mythology, fantasy, and the subconscious, revealing his fascination with the mystical and the imaginative.

Throughout his career, Cocteau collaborated with other leading artists and intellectuals, including Picasso, Stravinsky, and Apollinaire. His influence extends across literature, theater, visual arts, and cinema, making him one of the most innovative and versatile artists of the 20th century.