Unique metal relief “Collage en métal découpé” by Émile Gilioli, France 1971

Unique metal relief "Collage en métal découpé" by Émile Gilioli (1911–1977), France 1971. An intriguing abstract collage made from sheets of metal in a minimal cubistic style. Although subtle and modest in color, the work has a strong presence due to its sharp, futuristic lines and the structured paint, which is applied with conviction. The relief casts interesting shadows, accentuating the lines. Gilioli studied at the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts in Paris from 1931. After World War II, he returned to Paris in 1945, where he joined avant-garde abstract artists such as Serge Poliakoff, Jean Deyrolle, Jean Dewasne, and Victor Vasarely, as part of the group Nouvelle École de Paris. Trained as a blacksmith in his youth, Gilioli primarily worked with bronze and metal. He holds a prominent place in the post-war art scene. His works are included in the permanent collections of various museums worldwide, including MoMA in New York, the Tate Gallery in London, the São Paulo Museum of Modern Art, the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, the Musée National d'Art Moderne in Paris, and the Middelheim Open-Air Sculpture Park in Antwerp. Signed and dated in the lower left corner, with the original paper label from Galerie Veranneman attached to the back. The work hangs loose in the metal frame; it is also possible to hang the work without its frame. In excellent condition.