Sous les Nuages
A 19th-century French School canvas panel by renowned artist Paul Lecomte (1842-1920), signed in the lower left corner. The work possesses a smooth texture to the touch.
This landscape showcases Lecomte's rich yet controlled brushstrokes, with multiple layers employed to emphasize the expanse of the sky, from which the scene's depth appears to emanate. The masterful composition and realistic perspective draw us into the landscape, positioning us just behind the figures returning from work. The captured movement and ambiance transform us from mere observers into active participants in the scene. Alongside the nuanced textures and palette of the sky, the colors evoke nature's timeless beauty and convey a sense of an unfolding story.
About the artist: Born in Lille in 1842, Lecomte displayed early artistic talent, beginning to paint at just 10 years old. He studied at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Lille before moving to Paris to further his education, soon making his debut in the city's exhibitions.
Renowned for his bold use of color and shape, Lecomte's style was influenced by French painting masters such as Delacroix and Manet, with the core of his inspiration stemming from the Barbizon school.
Lecomte's work encompassed a diverse range, from intimate portraits to expansive landscapes. He had a remarkable ability to capture subtle nuances of light and shadow, resulting in works of great depth. Throughout his career, Lecomte received numerous awards and honors, including a gold medal at the 1889 Universal Exhibition.
His art has been exhibited internationally and remains highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts. Paul Lecomte continued painting until his death in 1920, leaving a lasting artistic legacy. Some of his works are held in the Louvre Museum and the Petit Palais.
- Overall Size: 18.5" x 23.6" / 47cm x 60cm.
- Size without frame: 12.5" x 18.1" / 32.5cm x 46cm.
- Country of Origin: France.
- Artist's Signature: Paul Lecomte (1842-1920).
- Creation Date: Late-1800s.
- Condition: The canvas exhibits curvature in several areas and features a visible 4.3" diagonal central restoration mark in the sky. Losses are visible along the edges, and there is a tear in both the canvas and frame at the two right corners. The antique wood frame is missing moldings at all four corners.
- Materials: Oil on stretched canvas, housed within an antique wood frame.
- Shipping: Complimentary shipping to the US and Europe. A surcharge will be applied for deliveries to Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.