Impressionist and Modern Art

We wish to thank Marina Ferretti for confirming the authenticity of the present lot, which will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Provenance:

Private Collection, Belgium.

Lot Note:

Paul Signac traveled through the Vendée as part of his systematic exploration of French ports and coastal landscapes. Drawn to fishing harbors, river mouths, and low-lying settlements, he encountered here a quieter, more horizontal geography than that of Brittany.

In contrast to Paimpol (Lot 52), the present work opens onto a broader horizon, with a pronounced emphasis on expansive skies. The light is softer and more diffused, allowing for a brighter yet restrained chromatic range. Muted blues and greys dominate, subtly enlivened by accents of rusty reds and sandy yellows in the sails and along the quay. This controlled palette does not diminish the vitality of the surface. On the contrary, the juxtaposition of small, discrete touches of color produces a quiet optical shimmer, perfectly attuned to the stillness of the landscape.

This serene and rare view of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie reveals Signac as both a systematic observer and a poetic interpreter of France's harbors. The watercolor privileges equilibrium, atmosphere, and duration over spectacle, offering a soothing vision of the Atlantic coast.

In overall good condition. The work is laid down to a larger sheet at all four corners, making it impossible for us to inspect its verso. We notice slight air bubbles along the left outer edge (covered by the mat when framed). Although the larger support sheet is toned and lit-struck, the sheet itself is only just gently toned, with still very fresh colors. All outer edges are straight, even and intact: no evidence of loss, or repair. Additional images available upon request.

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