La Plume

“Zodiaque or La Plume” is a renowned Art Nouveau artwork by Alphonse Maria Mucha, created around 1896-1897. The lithographic work, originally intended for an in-house calendar for the printers Champenois, features a woman of noble bearing adorned with stylish jewelry. Behind her head is a halo-like disk displaying the twelve signs of the Zodiac, symbolizing the Astrological calendar. The artwork is further embellished with elegant lines, flowers, and plants, as well as a highly decorative border. The lithograph is in full color and has hand gold leaf enhancements.

Alphonse Mucha, a Czech painter and illustrator, was a prominent figure in the Art Nouveau period. He lived in Paris and was known for his theatrical posters, especially those of Sarah Bernhardt. His illustrations, advertisements, and designs are among the most recognized images of the era. Later in his career, he returned to his homeland and created The Slav Epic, a series of twenty symbolist canvases depicting the history of all Slavic peoples. Mucha’s innovative use of form, color, and natural elements left a lasting legacy in the art world.