This piece, titled Self Portrait of ‘Kiki de Montparnasse’, is by Alice (Kiki) Prin and dates to c. 1920, reflecting a Realistic style. It is executed in Oil on board, showcasing the use of materials and technique. The dimensions and framing details are not specified, leaving its scale open to interpretation. The work is unsigned. Works in the realistic tradition often emphasize technique and thematic expression, inviting viewers to engage with the subject and context. This summary is generated from catalog records and reviewed for accuracy in attribution, date, and materials. Its style and material qualities reflect the cultural context of the period, demonstrating craftsmanship and thematic depth.
"Ms. Prin helped define the liberated culture of Paris in the so-called Années folles (“crazy years”) of the roaring twenties and became one of the most famous models of the 20th century and of avant garde art.
Long after her death, Prin remains the embodiment of the outspokenness, audacity and creativity that marked the interwar period of life in Montparnasse. She represents a strong artistic force in her own right as a woman. In Billy Klüver and Julie Martin’s book (1989), “Kiki’s Paris” they call her called “one of the century’s first truly independent women”.
Alice Ernestine Prin (1901 – 1953) known as Kiki, a French model, muse, night club singer, actor and painter nicknamed the Queen of Montparnasse or Kiki.
Ms Prin held a sold-out exhibition of her paintings in 1927 at the Galerie au Sacre du Printemps in Paris. Signing her work with her chosen single name, Kiki. Her drawings and paintings comprise portraits, self-portraits, social activities, fanciful animals, and dreamy landscapes composed in a light, slightly uneven, expressionist style that is a reflection of her easy-going manner and boundless optimism.
Her autobiography titled “Kiki’s Memoirs” was published in 1929, with Ernest Hemingway and Tsuguharu Foujita providing introductions. In 1930 the book was translated by Samuel Putnam and published in Manhattan by Black Manikin Press, but it was immediately banned by the United States government. L’Enfant Gallery hold a copy of this book titled “Education of a French Model” (1950 edition).
A copy of the first US edition was held in the section for banned books in the New York Public Library through the 1970s. A version of the book was reprinted under a new title in 1954 by Samuel Roth who exploited the fact the banned book did not receive copyright protection in the U.S. Roth altered the text and added illustrations and additional chapters which were not by Prin. The original autobiography finally saw a new translation and publication in 1996."
“To state upfront, I haven’t purchased anything from this shop so I don’t know how the prices compare. However, as a pedestrian always fascinated by this place, I enjoyed exploring two floors of antiques and art from around the world. The owner was kind enough to tell me the story behind a stained glass piece that belonged to George Washington’s family. It’s like getting up close to items in a museum!”
What a great find in Georgetown! Grace was an excellent tour guide and Peter is an absolute gem, will definitely be back! Highly recommend!
“L'Enfant Gallery is a haven of beauty and discovery! I often swing by just to walk around and bask in the incredible array of treasures!! I love the sheer variety and diversity it offers. I love hearing the stories behind each piece and embarking in an artistic time-travel of sorts! I love the staff, who are wonderful and so knowledgeable! And the events are great too! From fascinating lectures to more participatory proposals like a candle-lit yoga class! I always learn a lot and meet very interesting people! one of my top places in Georgetown and DC!!!”
“I have been a patron of L’Enfant Gallery since they hosted my wedding in 1985! As a resident of Georgetown for years, I have a long standing relationship with the gallery as a legacy Georgetown institution and Peter Colasante as an aficionado of all things art, neighbor and community pillar. In recent years L’Enfant Gallery has become more active in local events and is now an anchor in the Washington DC community arts festival (Art All Night). I have been fortunate to be able to attend some spectacular events at the gallery; a masquerade soirée, which was a sophisticated evening of intrigue where we chatted and sipped among the masters in disguise, slipping down the rabbit hole and dancing with DJs as the sky went from dark to light. A “dinner in the window”, hosted by L’Enfant Gallery showed them as a strong partner of Georgetown Mainstreet, supporting local restaurants in a one of a kind setting. Recently I attended a spelling-binding wedding celebration spanning the three floors of the gallery with cocktails, music and an interactive dance performance that led the way to the second floor which had been transformed into an intimate formal dining experience for over 50 people, prevailing F Scott’s panache for all the finer things… It is worth watching what is happening there when you are in town.”
“We found this spectacular gallery over 20 years ago and have acquired paintings, antique lights, furniture, and figurines from around the world there. The range and quality of the offerings on its several floors are stunning. Peter Colasante, the owner, has encyclopedic knowledge and is patient in explaining matters and answering your questions. It is the best gallery in D.C. Its reputation and longevity assure that you will find treasures and pieces not found elsewhere. We recently attended a gallery evening of music and song, with performances by singers, artists, and a magician.”
“I have gotten to know L’Enfant Gallery as an essential fixture in our Georgetown small business community. Peter, the owner, cares deeply about creating a safe and welcoming space, not only to shop for a diverse array of art and antiques, but also for artists to create within the gallery. I attended an incredible woman-led panel conversation “Art as Resistance” for the opening of their Wall of Women exhibition. I have also enjoyed how the gallery has used their storefront window as a living stage during Art All Night, Fall Market, and more- welcoming artists to create and perform. I had the pleasure of hosting a Dinner in the Window at the gallery to highlight our restaurant community in Georgetown. L’Enfant is a true partner for the arts and I would recommend engaging with them more, whether it is hosting an event, enjoying their diverse programming, or shopping their collection.”
"I've been shopping at L'Enfant Gallery since before opening my design firm in 1997. They occupy a rarefied space as purveyors of the finest antiques."
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