Coeurs, Graffiti

Coeurs, Graffiti (Graffiti Hearts) is a rare and poetic tapestry by Brassaï, handwoven by the renowned atelier of Yvette Cauquil-Prince in Paris. Conceived as a unique piece, the work reflects Brassaï’s deep fascination with the visual language of the city—specifically the spontaneous marks, symbols, and carvings he encountered on the walls of Paris.

Best known for his evocative photographs of Paris at night, Brassaï also dedicated significant attention to graffiti, documenting it as an authentic form of human expression. In Coeurs, Graffiti, he translates these fleeting, anonymous gestures into a permanent medium. The composition is built from simplified, symbolic forms—hearts, lines, and geometric shapes—that echo the scratched and drawn motifs found in urban spaces.

The transformation from wall to tapestry fundamentally shifts the nature of these marks. What was once ephemeral becomes enduring, preserved through the meticulous process of hand weaving. The surface of the tapestry lends weight and texture to the imagery, allowing each line and form to take on a new physical presence while retaining the immediacy of its origin.

The composition balances structure and spontaneity. While the arrangement of forms appears intuitive and organic, there is an underlying rhythm that guides the eye across the surface. Negative space plays an important role, allowing each symbol to stand clearly while contributing to the overall harmony of the work.

Yvette Cauquil-Prince’s atelier, known for its exceptional collaborations with modern artists, brings a high level of technical refinement to the piece. The weaving preserves the raw, graphic quality of Brassaï’s imagery while introducing subtle variations in texture that enrich the visual experience.

Signed within the composition and bearing the atelier monogram, Coeurs, Graffiti is preserved in perfect condition. With only a small number of tapestries produced from Brassaï’s designs, this work stands as a rare intersection of photography, street culture, and traditional craftsmanship—capturing the quiet poetry of everyday marks and elevating them into lasting form.