André Marfaing (1925-1987) was a leading figure in French abstract art, renowned for his monochrome compositions exploring the nuances of black and white. Born in Toulouse, Marfaing initially studied law before turning definitively to painting in the 1950s. His work is distinguished by a minimalist aesthetic in which the tension between light and shadow, and the dynamics of geometric forms, create intense emotional depth.

After abandoning figuration in the early 1950s, Marfaing immersed himself in abstraction, influenced by movements such as art informel and lyrical abstraction. His works are often characterized by vigorous brushstrokes, bold use of black and a constant quest for formal purity. Indeed, for Marfaing, black is not simply a color, but a medium in its own right, serving to express silence, infinity and emptiness.

André Marfaing has exhibited in prestigious galleries in France and abroad, and his work can be found in numerous public and private collections. Over the decades, he collaborated with artists and poets, and also created engravings and lithographs, where he continued his exploration of contrasts.

Marfaing died in 1987, leaving behind a body of work that continues to resonate with intensity and austerity. His unique approach to abstraction and mastery of black nuances earned him a place among the most respected artists of his time. His legacy lives on, inspiring new generations of artists and attracting the interest of collectors and art critics alike.