A prolific decorative artist whose work spanned the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods, Émile-Allain Seguy (French, 1877–1951) was a master of pattern. He often based his brilliantly colored patterns on scientific illustrations of rare or exotic birds, butterflies, and insects.

This elegant frame adapts a vibrant, nature-based motif from Bouquets et Frondaisons: 60 Motifs en Couleur (ca. 1925), an original book by Seguy in the Museum’s collection.

His designs are made using pochoir, a hand stenciling technique that reached its height in France in the 1920s.

Active in Paris between 1900 and 1925, Émile-Allain Seguy (French, 1877–1951) produced 11 lavishly printed albums featuring vivid stylized motifs for use by makers of textiles, wallpaper, and other applied arts.

Seguy’s highly original designs were sought after by manufacturers in both France and abroad. Around 1920, the noted American textile firm, F. Schumacher and Co., commissioned him to create Papillons (Butterflies), which they adapted into a woven silk textile.

Here, beveled glass, with beaded edge.  Piece is overall 8 1/2''W x 6 1/2''H; holds a 4'' x 6'' photo.

To view the complete collection, visit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art® Collection