Méduses et algues, vitrail. Cigales et lis, paons et cytise, bordures. 1897

This print titled, "Méduses et algues, vitrail. Cigales et lis, paons et cytise, bordures." was created by Maurice Pillard Verneuil. It features different motifs, including jellyfish, peacocks, and lilies arranged in a decorative panel-like composition. The print is dominated by curvilinear forms and a subdued colour palette, evoking a sense of serene elegance typical of the Art Nouveau movement. Verneuil masterfully uses symmetry and repetition, creating a rhythmic visual experience. The jellyfish, rendered in flowing lines and soft hues, contrast with the more structured arrangements of flowers and insects. The peacock panel, with its cascading wisteria, embodies Art Nouveau’s fascination with nature and Japanese design. Verneuil’s use of stylization is evident in how he transforms natural forms into ornamental patterns, effectively blurring the boundaries between art and decoration. Note the deliberate structure in each section. This work is not just aesthetically pleasing; it represents a broader cultural interest in harmonizing art with everyday life. The print destabilizes the traditional hierarchy between fine art and design, inviting us to reconsider the value and function of ornamentation in modern society.