This delicate mid-20th-century oil painting by Dutch artist Willy Fleur (1888-1967) depicts an arrangement of white flora set within a vase.
With such an appropriate surname, it seems that Willy Fleur was destined to become a still life painter. From an early age, he was surrounded by inspiration - his father and grandfather both worked in the former Dutch East Indies and would return home with various decorative objects. He possessed a keen eye for beauty, producing an array of exquisite pieces.
Here, in around 1940, the gentle white petals, captured with such dexterity, seem particularly poignant given the backdrop of European conflict. There’s a sense of youthful optimism within this tender ensemble.
Signed upper left and held within a frame that’s probably original.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 17½” x 21½” / 45cm x 55cm
Year of creation: c. 1940
Provenance: Private collection, Holland.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Dutch artist, Willy Fleur, was a specialist flower painter who worked predominantly in The Hague. His works were shown at various exhibitions including at the Stedelijk Museum, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Royal Art Hall Kleykamp.
Learn more about Willy Fleur in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
