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Francois-Louis
Schmied (1873 - 1941)
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Born in Switzerland, Schmied studied at the Geneva School
of Industrial Arts before moving to Paris in the early-1900's. There,
he practiced as a wood engraver and made contacts with people in the book
world with whom he would establish very beneficial relationships.
His adaptation of Paul Jouve's illustrations for Kipling's
"Jungle Books" brought him his first major success. He
often worked with his friend, the laquerist, Jean Dunand, who created
exquisite bindings, highly prized both then and now.
Schmied's collaboration with Dr. J.C. Mardrus, a translator,
include "La Creation" (1928), "Le Livre de la
Verite de la Parole", (1929) and "Le Paradis Musulman",
(1930).
He also worked very closely with George Barbier,
with whom
he created some of the most beautiful books of the period.
These titles include, "Poemes en Prose", "Vies
Imaginaires", "Chansons de Bilitis" and "Personnages
de Comedie".
Independently produced books include, "Les Ballades Francais",
(1927), "Les Adventures de Dernier Abencerage", (1930)
and "Peau Brune", (1930).
Schmied is considered by many to be the finest wood block engravers of
the Art Deco period. His attention to detail ultimately proved to be his
undoing, as he faced financial ruin in the 1930's.
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