Le Pont-Neuf

20th-century oil on wooden panel, attributed to Paul Hercule Hogg (1892–1985).

An atmospheric Parisian view inspired by Impressionism, depicting the Seine in the foreground, with the riverbank on the right gently guiding the composition toward the arches of the Pont Neuf. Beyond, the Paris skyline emerges softly through mist and light, rendered almost entirely as silhouette and atmosphere.

The brushwork is compact, layered, and lively, creating subtle movement across the surface of the painting. Reflections dissolve into pale mauves, blues, and silvery greys, while the softened handling of architecture allows the mood of the scene to take precedence over strict detail. The light suggests an early morning or late afternoon Paris, where the city seems to fade gently into the river air.

Despite its small scale, the composition carries a remarkable sense of depth and quiet elegance, balancing structure with softness in a distinctly post-impressionist sensibility.

The substantial antique molded frame creates a beautiful contrast with the delicate palette of the painting, adding warmth and presence to the cool tonal atmosphere of the scene.

About the artist:

Paul Hercule Hogg (1892–1985) was a Swiss painter and draftsman born in Herisau. After studying in Switzerland, he moved to Paris in 1910, where he attended the École des Beaux-Arts and studied under Fernand Cormon alongside artists including Chaïm Soutine.

He became a member of the Salon d’Automne in 1924 and regularly exhibited at the Salons des Tuileries and des Indépendants. Hogg also traveled extensively in North Africa and received recognition in 1937 for his artistic work in Morocco. In 1939, on the eve of the Second World War, he left Paris and settled in Sanary-sur-Mer, while continuing to maintain close ties with the Swiss art world through regular exhibitions in Fribourg.

• Overall Size: 15.5" x 17.3" / 39.5cm x 44cm.
  
• Size without the frame: 8.4" x 10.6" / 21.5cm x 27cm.
• Country of origin: France/Switzerland.
• Signature: Attributed to Paul Hercule Hogg (1892–1924).
  
• Creation date: Mid-20th century. 
• Conditions: The panel shows a visible crack in the form of a line running from left to right across the central area of the sky. This is an old accident that partially split the panel, now stabilized and restored. Traces of wood glue are visible on the reverse; however, the work should still be handled with care, even though it remains well protected by its frame. The antique molded wooden frame shows some wear consistent with age, along with a small impact to the upper right corner. Aside from this, it remains in very good condition.
  
• Materials: Oil on wood panel, in an antique wooden frame. 
• Shipped with DHL: Complimentary shipping to the US and Europe. A surcharge will be applied for deliveries to Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.
• DDP shipping: All taxes and import fees are included in the listed price.