La Charrette

20th-century oil painting on hardboard signed Pierre Agnès (1898–1964). The work is titled Charrette sur le chemin (Cart on the Road) and dated ’43 for 1943.

This soft-toned landscape is a study in movement and flow. The dirt road curves gently through the composition, echoed by the rolling banks, hills, forests, and distant mountain range. Even the cumulus clouds above seem to join this natural rhythm, creating a scene that feels deeply dimensional and alive.

The palette is luminous: light greens, golds, creams, and soft pinks evoke a serene countryside. A white farmhouse nestles at the forest’s edge, while a chariot and draft horse are quietly integrated into the scene. The artist’s mastery is particularly evident in the sky and its mirrored hues along the far-off peaks.

The painting is in very good condition with no notable damage. The antique wooden frame is a lovely complement to the work. On the reverse side of the hardboard, we see traces of the artist’s practice palette, a reminder that every surface was used in pursuit of craft.

About the artist: 

Born in Maisons-Laffitte (northwest of Paris), Pierre Agnès grew up in his father’s ornamental ironworking workshop. In 1915, he entered the École des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, but his studies were interrupted by the First World War, in which he served as a volunteer.

After the war, he worked as a draughtsman and decorator in Paris and the surrounding region while continuing to paint privately. From 1922 onwards, Brittany (Loctudy, then Camaret) became a regular source of inspiration; his paintings show a sustained attention to light and coastal atmosphere.

He exhibited at the Salon des Beaux-Arts (1930–1932) and the Salon des Indépendants (1948–1949). Recurring subjects such as countryside landscapes, seascapes, everyday life, family scenes, animal studies, and wartime drawings reflect an art rooted in lived experience and memory.

• Overall Size: 9.4" x 12.5" / 24cm x 32cm.
• Size without frame: 7" x 10.2" / 18.5cm x 26.5cm.
• Country of origin: France.
• Signature: Pierre Agnès (1898-1964). 
• Creation date: 1943. 
• Condition: The painting is in very good condition with no notable damage.
• Materials: Oil painting on hardboard in an antique wooden light frame. 
• Shipping: 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.