Oil On Isorel By Claude Lepape Representing André Roussin

Oil on Isorel representing - according to family sources - the entry of André Roussin into the Académie Française (1973).
The painter, engraver and theater designer, Claude LEPAPE (1913-1994) is the son of the famous painter Georges LEPAPE.
His style is described as hyperrealist, of symbolist inspiration.
In this painting, he makes an exception for his long-time friend André Roussin, by painting a "psychological" still life.
The author of "The Tomb of Achilles" of which he illustrated an edition in 1945 with a drypoint, is known as an actor, author and director.
On this painting are mixed all the symbols of a career, rewarded by the academic palms (whose green and gold branches come to life in a character seeming to protect and inspire our author, whose face matches the theater mask).
A large theater curtain escapes from the red elephant which probably symbolizes the strength and courage of our author.
The whole scene is pierced by the Academician's sword which crowns his career.
The choice of bright and contrasting colors is typical of the 70s, the period of production of our painting.
It is presented in its gilded wooden frame of the time, on which the name of the painter is written.