Lot 134
Europe, France, ca. mid-19th century CE. Signed lower left "M. Couiefer" or "M. Cornefer". A charming 19th century atmospheric seascape depicting three sailboats close to shore and a small approaching dingy occupied by several figures donning seaworthy coats and hats. Waters gently agitate the vessels as fresh breezes fill their slightly leaning masts. The painting displays a muted tonalist palette in a style that carefully presents the palpable effects of light as well as a sense of quietude. The dusty rose and golden hues of the sky convey that the marine scene is taking place at either dawn or dusk. After doing some research and consulting with several of my curator friends, I am still not sure who this artist was. What I do know is that he was most likely a French artist. Note, there is a signature on the lower left that reads "M. Couiefer" or "M. Cornefer" (the "M" for Monsieur) and on the back of the canvas is a stamp that for the most part is somewhat illegible, but thankfully the word "Paris" is legible. Despite the fact that this is the work of a little known artist, the painting is quite elegant and was clearly created by the hand of a very skilled artist. It may have been a copy made during the artist's education as this was a common practice during the 19th century. Regardless, the painting is impressive and beautiful in a poetic way and housed in an attractive carved and painted wood frame. Beyond this, the painting is in very good condition considering its age, and the painting along with its stretcher and canvas have aged quite gracefully. The glazed surface presents fine patterns of craquelure. The darkened canvas was nailed, with nice old nails, to an old dark wood stretcher demonstrating its advanced age. Quite simply, a breathtaking 19th century marine composition, rare to find! Size: canvas measures 14" L x 10.625" W (35.6 cm x 27 cm); 19.25" L x 15.75" W (48.9 x 40 cm)
Provenance: Ex-private P. Nikitovich collection, Cherry Hills, Colorado.
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#113267
- Condition: Aged canvas with nice craquelure. Tiny chip to upper right of canvas. Frame intact with minor wear to paint.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |