Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Marc François, Paris
Durand-Ruel, New York (acquired from the above in 1936)
Pierre Durand-Ruel (acquired in 1946)
Sam Salz, Inc., New York

Work is in excellent condition. Canvas is unlined. Extreme edges of work show signs of minor rubbing from frame. Under UV light: no inpainting is apparent.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The genre of still-life easel painting dates back to the sixteenth century in Western art and remains a popular subject of artists to the present day.  As the first movement toward Modern art, the Impressionists broke away from the traditional teachings at the official Salon in Paris and organized an exhibition of their own in 1874. Nature morte aux figues is a striking example of still life painting by one the great champions of Impressionist art, Pierre-Auguste Renoir. 

In this lushly-painted canvas, Renoir presents the viewer a triumphant composition that literally celebrates the fruits of the earth. Painterly brushstrokes merge blue smudges to create the illusion of intricate folds that define the tablecloth. Generous in size, Nature morte aux figues has the attention to detail reminiscent in Renoir's early oeuvre. The confident and gestured brush strokes that create the tablecloth compliment the delicate touches of impasto in the onions as well as the figs. As if to challenge the critics of so-called "Impressionist" painting, Renoir's feather-like handling of his brush demonstrates his ability with the medium.

Fig. 1  Pierre-Auguste Renoir, circa 1900, Photo Archives Durand-Ruel