Quatre Heures

This 19th-century oil painting on paper, marouflaged onto hard carton, is from the atelier of Normandy painter Emile Tremblay (1855-1935). The piece is monogrammed in the lower left corner and features the atelier's stamp on the reverse.

This lovely small still life painting bears all the marks of its age and history. It depicts a sliced fruit, a piece of bread, and a glass of juice or wine on a white porcelain plate. Similar to other still life works in this collection by Emile Tremblay, the knife is remarkably distinct, with a carved handle. The rest of the details in the painting are more fluid, and the light is soft and grey. This piece would make a charming addition to a kitchen or small bookcase.

Emile Tremblay is an artist with no available biography online. However, through extensive research of old archives and letters, we have uncovered some context about his closest associates. Emile had a brother, Louis Tremblay, who was a published poet, author, and painter. Emile was also a dear friend of the famous Swedish artist, art critic, and museum manager Richard Bergh (1858-1919), to whom he inscribed a painting with the dedication, "To my brother Bergh." The remainder of what we know about Emile Tremblay comes solely from his exquisite atelier works.

• Overall Size: 5.1" x 9.4" / 13.5cm x 24.5cm.
  
• Country: France.
  
• Provenance: Atelier Tremblay (Normandy). 
• Signed: The artwork bears the workshop stamp on the reverse side. 
• Date: Late 19th century or Early 20th century.
• Materials: Oil on hard carton. 
• Texture: The surface of the piece presents a slight texture to the touch. 
• Condition: This painting has some marks from age, moisture spots, and a few slightly torn corners. Otherwise it is in good condition.
  
• Shipping: This painting includes free shipping. An additional fee is applied for Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.