Anonymous Griffon. SIZE: 30 1/2 x 45 5/8 in./77.5... Lot 31

Anonymous Griffon. SIZE: 30 1/2 x 45 5/8 in./77.5 x 115.8 cm PRINTER: Publicité L. Arnault, Neully-sur-Seine DESCRIPTION: Backed by a stylized image of the rising sun, the griffon digs his talons into the frame of the vignette, where we find a couple out for a carefree pedal through sleepy towns and byways, completely unaware of any bestial presence. Both are atop Griffon bicycles, of course. The unusual feature here is the contrast between the mean-spirited ghoulish griffon—the monster of Greek mythology with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion, and the namesake and symbol of the company—and the tranquil scene of the couple on the village road below. Whether the creature represents strength or foreboding danger, we may never know. (Art Nouveau; Bicycles)