This beautiful early 20th-century oil painting by French artist Eugène Galien-Laloue (1854-1941) depicts several figures unloading fish at the port of Dieppe.
Eugène Galien-Laloue is known for his naturalistic plein-air depictions of Normandy and Seine-et-Marne. But he also produced lively Parisian street scenes, which capture the effervescent delights of the bustling Belle Époque era. Born in Montmartre, Paris, to French-Italian parents, he initially sought a career in the military before pursuing his artistic endeavours and, as such, lacked a formal academic background.
It seems he was predominantly self-taught and gained valuable early experience during a spell working for the French Railway as an illustrator. Part of his role involved depicting the track between Paris and the provinces, which enabled him to also study the surrounding countryside. Within two years, he was exhibiting his works at the Museum of Reims - he never looked back.
Here, in this typically atmospheric depiction of Dieppe, Normandy, the divided composition creates multiple points of interest. On the left, one can explore the shimmering harbourside, resting upon the orange glow of shop fronts on the bustling boulevard. While on the right, the turquoise waters reflect sails of moored vessels under powdery pink clouds.
Galien-Laloue's works capture a sense of the energy emitted from the environment - whether that’s a river view surrounded by flora or a busy town overrun with figures. However, despite this, he was known as a reclusive character who led a monastic life devoid of worldly pleasures. His bicycle was the only indulgence he allowed himself. In addition, it’s said that he wasn’t a particular fan of wading through muddy fields to explore the great outdoors - preferring, instead, to find a suitably dry spot and stay there.
His dedication led to a solid career with numerous works shown at the illustrious Paris Salon - along with exhibitions in Versailles, Saint Etienne, Bordeaux, and Monte Carlo among others. Today he’s represented at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Louvier, Musée des Beaux-Arts, La Rochelle, and Mulhouse, France.
Signed in the lower left and held within a later frame. Previously sold for £5,500 before fees in 2014. A smaller comparable work sold at Sotheby’s for £17,300 in 2007.
Learn more about Eugene Galien-Laloue in our directory.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 33” x 25½” / 84cm x 65cm
Year of creation: c. 1920
Provenance: Halls Fine Art (2014) / Private collection, UK.
Condition: Assessed and approved by our conservator. Canvas relined. Beautiful overall condition.
Artist’s auction maximum: £96,866 for ‘Paris, Hiver, Neige, Boulevard Bonne Nouvelle au Théâtre du Gymnase’, Gouache on paper, Anaf-Martinon, Arts Decoratifs, Tableaux & Sculptures, Lyon, 2004 (lot 92).
Our reference: BRV1838
