Gauntlet Gallery — Sandra Chevrier Print Index
La Cage Et Le Commencement
Summary
A 2013 giclee titled "The Beginning," from the "La Cage" series. Printed on 300g Moab natural paper with a 24 x 29 inch sheet and a 20 x 25 inch image, signed and numbered in an edition of 80. The title suggests origin and emergence, a counterpoint within the series' recurring meditation on identity.
Why It Matters
"Le Commencement" frames the portrait around beginnings and emergence, adding narrative range to the 2013 group. Sharing paper, dimensions, and edition size with its companion titles, it slots cleanly into a collector's series set while standing on its own through its distinct imagery and thematic framing of the comic-panel-over-portrait device.
Collector Perspective
Edition 80 keeps this in the more available tier, attractive for those assembling a matched suite of 2013 "La Cage" giclees where consistent format aids uniform framing. The 24 x 29 sheet matches its siblings. Signed and numbered gives standard authentication. As with the run, careful condition review of the natural-paper sheet is advisable.
Historical Context
One of several 2013 "La Cage" giclees produced on Moab natural paper at matching sizes, this work reflects Chevrier's systematic approach to the series. The comic-book overlay recurs as both mask and armor, while the poetic French titles thread individual pieces into a larger conceptual narrative about womanhood.
FAQ
What does the title mean?
"La Cage Et Le Commencement" translates to "The Cage: The Beginning," evoking origin and emergence.
What are the dimensions?
A 24 x 29 inch sheet with a 20 x 25 inch image.
How large is the edition?
80, matching several companion 2013 titles.
How is it authenticated?
It is signed and numbered by the artist.
About the Artist
Sandra Chevrier is a Canadian contemporary artist based in Montreal, best known for her ongoing series La Cage, in which she paints delicate female portraits partially overlaid with comic-book imagery. The superhero panels function as a metaphorical "cage," exploring the pressures, expectations, and idealized roles imposed on women. Her mixed-media works combine painting, drawing, and vintage comic collage, and she has exhibited internationally and collaborated on projects including a notable series with Hendrik Beikirch. Chevrier's editioned prints translate her intimate, layered originals to a wider collector audience.
Collecting Sandra Chevrier at Gauntlet Gallery
How do I start collecting Sandra Chevrier?
Signed, numbered giclee and screenprint editions from her La Cage series are the primary entry point, with hand-embellished editions and unique paintings at the higher end. Look for strong facial detail and clean comic-collage layering. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes well-preserved impressions with complete signing.
How is authenticity documented?
Chevrier works are sold with documented studio provenance and the artist's signature and numbering. We photograph the exact piece you receive, including the signature and edition details, so authenticity can be verified before purchase.
What drives Sandra Chevrier's value?
Medium (originals and hand-embellished editions over open prints), edition size, iconic imagery from La Cage, condition, and documented provenance are the key value drivers. Unique and low-numbered embellished works carry the strongest premiums.