Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire)

"Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire)" is a captivating print by Louis Marcoussis, currently housed in the esteemed National Gallery of Art. This striking black and white composition features a horse in profile, its body adorned with intricate, short, vertical lines. Adding a touch of whimsy, four stylized birds perch gracefully on the horse's back, neck, and tail. The title "LE SOURIRE," meaning "The Smile," is prominently inscribed above the horse's back, inviting us to ponder the meaning behind this enigmatic juxtaposition of imagery and text. The artist's signature and the edition number "No. 19" are discreetly placed in the lower left corner, adding to the artwork's sense of exclusivity and value.