About the Artist
George Barbier was a French illustrator whose refined draftsmanship helped define Art Deco aesthetics in 1920s Paris. Renowned for his fashion imagery and costume designs, he infused theatrical flair into modern elegance, blending clean contours with ornate silhouettes.
Barbier’s work bridged haute couture, stage culture, and luxury publishing, making his illustrations enduring references for collectors of early twentieth-century design. To discover more by Barbier and his contemporaries, visit our famous artists collection.
The Artwork
Created in 1922, Sortilèges reflects the postwar Parisian appetite for glamour and innovation. The illustration was originally conceived for a fashion publication, capturing the spirit of an era when clothing was celebrated as both personal expression and public spectacle.
The presence of a large, elegant bird beside the model transforms the scene into a tableau of poise and fantasy, echoing the theatricality that defined Parisian nightlife and design. This vintage French fashion print encapsulates how style became a symbol of modern identity and aspiration in the early 1920s.
Style & Characteristics
The composition is vertically oriented, featuring a graceful figure in a flowing blue gown, accompanied by a majestic white bird whose form mirrors the drama of the dress. Barbier’s crisp outlines and smooth color fields evoke the polished, graphic sensibility of Art Deco decorative art.
Deep black and soft beige backgrounds create striking contrast, while subtle white highlights lend luminosity and control to the forms. The overall mood is cool, refined, and slightly enigmatic, making this an Art Deco print that stands out in any setting. For more works in similar tones, explore our blue and vertical posters collections.
In Interior Design
This poster is well-suited to bedrooms, dressing areas, hallways, or offices where a touch of Parisian sophistication is desired. It pairs beautifully with brass accents, black lacquered furniture, and creamy textiles, complementing both Art Deco and modern classic interiors.
Display it as a focal point above a console or vanity, or incorporate it into a gallery wall with other fashion and illustration prints. The harmonious palette of blue, beige, and black coordinates easily with neutral decor and warm wood finishes.
