THEODORUS VAN HOYTEMA - Christmas Eve

THE ARTWORK

Theo van Hoytema's "Kerstnacht" (Christmas Eve) is not a single artwork but one half of a paired lithograph titled "Kerstnacht - Nieuwjaar" (Christmas Eve - New Year). Created in 1894, these lithographs are considered to be some of van Hoytema's most iconic works and represent Dutch Art Nouveau (Nieuwe Kunst) at its finest. The other half to this pair is also available from OharaPrints.

The two pieces are vertical lithographs with a unique, tall format reminiscent of Asian hanging scrolls. They are both signed and dated by the artist and feature symbolic borders along the bottom edge that tie the two thematically.

THE ARTIST

Theodorus van Hoytema (1863–1917) was a Dutch illustrator and decorative artist celebrated for his enchanting depictions of birds and other animals. Emerging during the Art Nouveau movement, van Hoytema played a significant role in shaping the decorative arts and children's book illustration of his time. His distinctive style combined meticulous attention to detail with a whimsical and fantastical quality, characterized by flowing lines and vibrant colors.

Van Hoytema's illustrations, often featuring intricate patterns and decorative elements, evoked a sense of magic and wonder, captivating audiences with their charm and elegance. He had a particular fascination with avian life, reflected in his series of bird illustrations that showcased his deep understanding of their anatomy and behavior.

Through his work, van Hoytema created worlds where nature and imagination intertwined seamlessly, inviting viewers into a realm of beauty and enchantment. His illustrations adorned numerous books, posters, and decorative objects, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of his era.

THE PRINT

• A4 Size = 29.7cm x 21cm = 11.7" x 8.25"
• A3 Size = 42cm x 29.7cm = 16.5" x 11.7"
• High resolution giclée print - 600dpi
• Printed to order
• Unframed & unmounted
• Professionally printed using Canon imagePROGRAF printers
• Digitally restored by OharaPrints from high resolution scans of the original artwork
• Made in and shipped from Casterton, Victoria, Australia

PAPER

• Canson Infinity - Arches BFK Rives White
• Paper weight = 310gsm
• 100% cotton
• Archival, museum grade
• Acid free
• No OBAs (optical brightening agents)

Arches BFK Rives is a high-quality, archival-grade paper manufactured at the Arches paper mill in France - one of the oldest papermakers in Europe. It is made from 100% cotton rag using a time-honoured manufacturing process, giving the paper exceptional durability, longevity, and resistance to yellowing or deterioration over time. Despite its substantial weight and thickness it maintains a very soft and supple feel. The paper has a natural white tone and is completely free of any optical brighteners (OBAs), allowing for superb colour rendition and deep blacks.

INK

• Canon Lucia Pro Inks
• Pigment based
• Archival, museum-grade
• Brilliant colours, even gradient and razor-sharp lines
• Highly stable and fade resistant, excellent humidity-fastness

SHIPPING & HANDLING

• All orders are dispatched on the NEXT BUSINESS DAY after receiving the order
• All prints are shipped via AUSTRALIA POST with TRACKING
• For postage rates and estimated delivery times please see our SHIPPING page
• All prints are shipped flat, not rolled
• Each print is individually placed into a resealable, archival grade plastic protective sleeve
• Prints are carefully packaged in very sturdy 700gsm cardboard envelopes, along with 1050gsm boxboard sheets which provide extra strength & rigidity to prevent bending or folding during transit