catalog text
JEAN-MICHEL LAURENT (FRENCH, 1899-1988) FISHING VESSELS ALONG COAST
Signed lower right Jean Laurent, executed in oil on panel
Item # 803FDU14
A vibrant and somewhat dreamy painting of fishing vessels anchored just slightly offshore from a rocky coastline, the painting is typical of Laurent with a high-chroma palette and sharp detailing of the scene. The warm-green hue of the water almost blends into the descending fog, the boats in the distance almost disappearing into the haze. Much of his work detailed individual ships, seafaring life as well as a selection of still-life and floral paintings; a slightly smaller example of his sold at Sotheby’s Olympia (Sale W0773, lot 207, 11 July 2007, achieved 3600 GBP) depicting a single vessel with a small boat going ashore. The present example is rather complex, involving numerous vessels and intricate perspective work amongst the ships and reflections. It remains in nearly pristine condition. A most fine acquisition for anyone passionate about fine nautical works and European maritime genre scenes.
Measurements: 31 3/4” W x 2 1/2” D x 25 3/4” H [frame]; 24” W x 18” H [panel]
Condition Report:
Surface cleaned in the last decade or so, still remaining clean and vibrant. Very minor flaws to varnish, two spots in the centermost cloud. Under UV a few spots of touch up. Some scuffing and light wear to contemporary frame.