Louis Valtat

Collection particulière, Europe

This work is in excellent original condition. The canvas is not lined. There is a varnish which impedes thorough examination but there is no evidence of retouching visible under UV light.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

signed with the monogram 'L. V' (lower right), oil on canvas. Painted circa 1907.

Vers 1907, alors que l’effusion du Fauvisme baptisé au Salon d’Automne de 1905 commence à se contenir, les couleurs à se nuancer, les traits à se discipliner, Louis Valtat ne perd rien de sa fougue audacieuse et pionnière. Peint en Normandie, dans un de ces ports fréquentés par Seurat, dans celui que Françoise Sagan qualifiera plus tard de "petit Saint-Tropez normand", Barques à Port en Bessin est une œuvre où les contrastes aussi lumineux qu’outrés, les lignes aussi voluptueuses que mouvementées démontrent l’authentique originalité de l’artiste.