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.