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Charles E. Chambers
Story illustration for “Appearance and Reality” by Somerset Maugham

1934

About the Item

Story illustration for “Appearance and Reality” by W. Somerset Maugham, published in Cosmopolitan, November 1934, pages 22-23. Described as "A masterfully witty story of manners and morals in Paris, where appearances always mean so much more than the facts themselves," the narrative centers around Monsieur Le Sueur, a married Senator and businessman, who becomes infatuated with the alluring fashion model, Lissette. Having established Lissette as his mistress, he provides her with an apartment only to discover that his young love has a boyfriend. In a surprising turn of events, Le Sueur agrees to the lovers' marriage, believing it befitting for a man of his standing to maintain a respectable married woman as his mistress. The illustration itself is captivating, employing a striking red, white, and black color palette that effectively conveys the underlying tension. Lissette, draped in a lacy white robe and silk stockings, gazes at the older Le Sueur with a sense of self-satisfaction, while he appears visibly distressed. The empty chair, abandoned food on a stylish plate, and a half-full cup of coffee alongside a still-smoking cigar subtly suggest the temporary absence of Lissette's younger lover. The accompanying full caption reads: "‘The young man of yours—has he my distinction, my intelligence?’ Reproached Monsieur Le Sueur. ‘Oh, no,’ smiled the fickle Lisette. ‘I love him because he’s young.’” Charles Chambers was a master of his craft, renowned for his polished and compelling compositions. His illustrations, featuring anatomically perfect figures and meticulously rendered objects in harmonious colors, were perfectly suited for reproduction. He successfully balanced his career between editorial assignments for prominent publications like Cosmopolitan and Redbook, and high-profile advertising commissions for esteemed clients such as Steinway & Sons, Chesterfield, and Palmolive. His work consistently demonstrated a skilled and distinctive style that solidified his reputation as a leading illustrator of his era.
  • Creator:
    Charles E. Chambers (1883 - 1941, American)
  • Creation Year:
    1934
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 24 in (60.96 cm)Width: 32 in (81.28 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Fort Washington, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 43441stDibs: LU38439302922

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