Gaston Roullet

Private Collection, France

The work is good condition overall, as is the canvas, which is clear and sound. Indication of light wear and handling is evident around the edges of the painting inherent to the framing process, but the paint layers are well-preserved. Under ultraviolet light inspection shows signs of pin-sized restorations scattered predominantly in the background. Framed.
"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."

Early in his artistic career, Gaston Roullet received the traditional title of the "Official Painter of the French Navy". This prestigious title was awarded since the XIXth c. to traveler painters working in colonies and remote countries whose works were reflections of the French colonial expansion. His rare and important work from the Indochina period - from the late XIXth to the early XXth c. - represents the different important landscapes of the area with a remarkable quality of execution and a very accurate technique inherited from the traditional European oil painting of the XIXth c.

Our seascape represents the well known Beach of Thuan An near the old imperial city of Hue where the French landed the first time to access the capital. The precise drawing of the two Vietnamese junks perfectly corresponds  to the typical boats were used at the time. The foreground depicts a simple fishermen village. The beginning of the Annamese mountains on the background are surrounded by a tender poetic light and add depth to the classical composition. 

Gaston Roullet's oil painting resists time and still moves us today, through to the beauty of his colors and the elegance his brushstrokes, and still witnesses the importance of the school of the "traveler-painters".