EUGÈNE BOUDIN | Anvers, gros temps sur l'Escaut

Private Collection, Paris (sold: Hôtel Drouot, Paris, 30th March 1935, lot 55)
Private Collection (acquired by 1973)
Galerie Serret, Paris
Galerie Matignon Saint Honoré, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owner in 2004

Paris, Galerie Charpentier, Cent tableaux de Boudin: trésors du Musée de Caen et Boudin, 1958, no. 23

Ruth L. Benjamin, Eugène Boudin, New York, 1937, mentioned p. 196
Robert Schmit, Eugène Boudin, 1824-1898, Paris, 1973, vol. I, no. 761, illustrated p. 271

The canvas is strip-lined and the edges are taped. UV examination reveals some scattered spots and lines of retouching to the sky, relating to two repaired tears towards the centre of the upper edge, and an intermittent line of retouching just above the tallest mast. There are a few needle-head sized holes in places, only visible when viewed with a torch from behind. There is some wear to the extreme edges of the canvas (visible in the upper two corners where the tape has been pulled back), not visible when framed. There are a few occasional very fine lines of craquelure in places throughout. This work is in overall good condition.
"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."

Throughout the 1870s, Eugène Boudin frequently traveled to coastal towns and cities in northern France, the Netherlands and Belgium, depicting the lively ports and beaches of this area, which teemed with commerce and leisure. Boudin was a devotee to painting en plein air, which helped him capture the atmospheric essence of a scene. In Anvers, gros temps sur l'Escaut, Boudin employs a low horizon line, allowing the composition to be dominated by the dramatic sky, exemplary of Boudin's confident command of brushwork and tonal exploration. Boudin masterfully suggests the element of wind through the choppy waters and flapping Belgian flag.