The aesthetics of modernity had long been a key element of Léger's work, but this fascination took on an even sharper edge in the midst of vast reconstruction projects following the Second World War. The spectacle of electricians working on a pylon in the countryside proved to be especially important; Léger was captivated by the contrast between the organic forms of nature and the rigid geometry of the metal girders. In the early 1950s he produced an acclaimed series of paintings that celebrated the builders who were reshaping the landscape of France.

After joining the French Communist Party in 1945, Léger chose to focus on the human figure as his primary subject, in order to make his work accessible to as many people as possible. In previous decades the figures in his paintings seemed impersonal and mechanised, but in these late images they assert their presence as living individuals. Léger was determined to forge a connection with the working man, and he chose to hang his Constructeurs paintings in the canteen of the Renault factory at Boulogne-Billancourt.

This important print boasts a fascinating provenance. It features a personal dedication to Aubrey Pankey, the noted American baritone. After moving to Europe in 1930, he spent six years living in Paris, holding concerts that were attended by noted politicians and public figures. He broke into French radio after an introduction from the widow of former President Georges Clemenceau, and also worked as an actor. His dedication to racial equality and support for left-wing political causes made him a fellow traveller for Léger, but also aroused suspicions from the US House Un-American Activities Committee. In 1956, he emigrated to East Germany, where he would reside until his death in 1971.

This fabulous artwork, dedicated by one great artist to another, is not only a Modernist masterpiece but a fascinating historical document. It is one of only three aquatints in Léger's oeuvre.

Any questions? We are happy to help. Call: 0117 279 6402 or send us a message now.

Framing - This piece has been framed by an experienced in-house framing team to conservation standards. This is included in the price. We use archival materials and 99% anti UV glass to ensure the long-term safety and stability of the artwork. All frames are bespoke, taking into account the precise needs of each piece in terms of preservation and presentation. Click here for more information.

Home Approvals - Want to see the artwork in situ? There is a lot to consider when buying art: artist, subject, age, provenance, budget, and we can only apologise for making it more difficult by having such fantastic works to choose from. To compensate, we’re delighted to be able to offer you a home approval if you live close to one of our Hidden cities. Click here for more information, or feel free to get in touch.

Worldwide Delivery - We offer free collection from any one of our galleries. Alternatively, we ship worldwide using a fully insured specialist art courier to ensure your new purchase reaches you without any fuss or stress. Please contact us for a quote or visit our Shipping FAQs for more information.

Hidden focuses on sought after, limited edition prints by the most illustrious artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Click here to view more work from our collection.

**Hidden is compliant with Anti Money Laundering regulations and registered with HMRC in accordance with 5AMLD. This means that should you wish to purchase work/s for the sterling equivalent of 10,000 Euros or over, we will ask you for some additional verification for anti-money laundering purposes.**