◇ Le Nouveau Jardin

This exquisite rendering captures the transition from 17th-century classical symmetry to the bold, rhythmic geometry of the early 20th-century Art Deco movement. A central circular basin, labeled "Bassin d’Eau," serves as the structural heart of the composition, surrounded by meticulously stippled shrubbery and sharp, angular pathways. The contrast between the fine, technical linework of the garden beds and the heavy, charcoal-toned scrolling border creates a viewing experience that feels both historically grounded and strikingly modern.

Why We Picked It
The artwork is a masterstroke of balanced proportions and graphic clarity. André and Paul Vera’s influence is evident in the way they reimagined the jardin à la française through a Cubist lens, replacing soft curves with hard-edged, crystalline forms. The technical annotations and graphic scale at the base add an element of "The Architect’s Eye," making the piece feel like a discovered artifact from a private design studio. The monochromatic palette—ranging from deep carbon blacks to soft parchment greys—emphasizes texture and form over color, allowing the viewer to focus on the spatial harmony of the layout.

Notable Context
In 1912, André and Paul Vera published Le nouveau jardin, a manifesto that rejected the "disorderly" English landscape style in favor of a return to French order. This was a direct response to the industrialization of Europe; the brothers believed that a garden should be an outdoor extension of the home's architecture. Their work was pivotal at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, where they showcased gardens that functioned as lived-in geometry. This specific print reflects the cultural tension of the era: a deep respect for the Sun King’s legacy at Versailles merged with the avant-garde spirit of the "Machine Age."

About the Artist
The Vera brothers were central figures in the development of the Art Deco aesthetic. André, the theoretician and landscape architect, provided the philosophical backbone, while Paul, the painter and decorator, brought the visions to life through vibrant illustrations and tapestries. Together, they championed a "modern classicism" that influenced everything from urban planning to textile design. Their work remains a vital touchstone for the "Analog Movement" today, as contemporary designers look back to their hand-rendered plans as a pinnacle of architectural draftsmanship and disciplined beauty.