1st April 1933, Original professionally framed “La Vie Parisienne” book plate

Illustrated by Georges Leonnec and titled “Anonymous Lips” - a tender kiss is shared between two masked lovers.

Leonnec (1881 - 1940) was a French illustrator who, after WW1, worked heavily with publications such as La Vie Parisienne, Fantasia and Le Sourire.

A lot can be read from the colour of a mask at a ball and these were key contributors to first impressions and reading another’s intentions. Masks allowed individuals to express one's freedom of speech and voice one's emotions and opinions without judgement. Black masks symbolised authority and sophistication. Whilst a white mask presented that one was virtuous, fertile, clean, and of high status.