Les Voiliers

20th-century oil on canvas by Alfred-Marie Le Petit (1876–1953), signed lower left corner. Dated July 26, 1929 on the reverse.

A coastal landscape made with textured brushstrokes, especially in the rendering of the water. The gradual foggy effect gives off a lovely depth that extends from the boat in the foreground to the tree-lined horizon. 

Alfred-Marie Le Petit knows how to bring color to the view without drowning it, even in his watery reflections. The light is slightly subdued, suggesting the end of the day.

We think that the work may have been executed in Fécamp, Normandy. The lighthouse, in front of the sea, resembles those visible on the outer dikes of Norman fishing ports.

Alfred-Marie Le Petit (1876–1953) was a French painter, engraver and illustrator trained in Paris, notably in the atelier of Jean-Léon Gérôme. Son of cartoonist Alfred Le Petit, he inherited a pronounced taste for day-to-day observation. He showed work at the main Parisian salons at the start of the 20th century and stood out for his depictions of the banks of the Seine, as well as Norman ports and villages.

An active member of the Society of Norman Artists, he also taught drawing in Paris. His work mixes academic tradition and Impressionist sensibility, in a lively light palette.

This charming marine scene stands on its own, but a future frame would offer protection and a nice final touch. 

• Overall Size: 12.5" x 18.1" / 32.5cm x 46cm.
  
• Country of origin: France.
• Signature: Alfred-Marie Le Petit (1876–1953). 
• Creation date: 1929.  
• Condition: The canvas remains in good condition, including along the edges, despite nearly a century of age.
• Materials: Oil painting on canvas. 
• 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.