Francois-Louis Schmied Paintings

Francois-Louis Schmied was a skilled French designer, wood engraver, printer, and bookbinder, known for his significant contributions to the art of the illustrated book during the early 20th century. Born on November 6, 1873, in Geneva, Switzerland, Schmied moved to Paris to embark on his artistic career. He initially trained as a metalworker and coppersmith but gradually moved towards graphic arts, where he found his true passion.

Schmied's work is characterized by its exquisite craftsmanship and the harmonious integration of text and illustration. His approach to book design was highly influenced by the Art Deco movement, which was gaining popularity during the 1920s and 1930s. Schmied embraced the movement's stylization and geometric forms, and he was particularly noted for his use of vibrant colors and gold leaf in his wood engravings.

Throughout his career, Schmied collaborated with notable writers and artists, producing limited edition books that are now highly prized by collectors. One of his most famous collaborations was with the poet Blaise Cendrars on the book 'La Prose du Transsibérien' in 1913, which was groundbreaking in its fusion of avant-garde typography and abstract design.

Despite his success, Schmied faced financial difficulties throughout his life, often due to the high production costs of his elaborate editions and his insistence on perfection. His dedication to the art of the book was uncompromising, which sometimes came at the expense of his financial stability.

As World War II approached, Schmied's work fell out of favor, and he struggled to find an audience for his painstakingly crafted books. He died on March 3, 1941, in Paris, largely forgotten by the public. However, his work has since been rediscovered and celebrated for its artistry and innovation in the field of fine book making. Schmied's legacy continues to influence the design of limited edition books and the appreciation of the book as a complete work of art.