This lot consists of a handsomely framed oil painting on canvas, done in the shimmering, Impressionistic style of Claude Monet (French, 1840-1926). "Claude Monet 1884" is hand painted at lower right. Awash in tones of jewel and earth, this sunny image depicts an elegant woman making her way down a familiar country lane. Trees on either side of her seem to bend and glimmer in the midday light. Bright, puffy clouds sail idly by. Any stretch of the varnished canvas is illuminated with the studied attention of a masterful hand. Colors mingle and merge to create a summery, lifelike scene. Done in the vibrant style for which Claude Monet is so very well beloved. Overall measurements are approximately 19.5" x 24", with an approximate image sight of 12.5" x 17.5". A gorgeous highlight to any collection.

The reverse side of this piece features a fascinating glimpse into the artist's process. On the back of this beautifully aged canvas, we see a full spectrum of pigment. From scarlet red to mustard to deepest violet, we now see arranged in a neat little row that which is almost always unseen: the artist's palette.

A stamp at lower edge of frame reads, "Petit G. Collection. Paris." Georges Petit (11 March 1856 - 12 May 1920) was a French art dealer, a key figure in the Paris art world and an important promoter and cultivator of Impressionist artists. Petit began buying Impressionist works as early as 1878, when he served as an expert in the sales of works from the collections of Jean Victor Louis Faure and bankrupt former Claude Monet patron, Ernest Hoschede. Petit was just 22 years old at this time - and it was only a year after he inherited the business - so his involvement with the Impressionists began with the commencement of his career. The Galerie Georges Petit closed in 1933 and its assets were sold at auction.

The viewer is also encouraged to note a handwritten inscription at top edge of rear frame, which reads, "Promenade au Cap Martin. 1884."

Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a French painter, founding member of the Impressionist art movement, and a master of capturing light and movement within the medium of painting. Monet was not only influenced by Japanese design sensibilities, but he held a deep-rooted artistic philosophy about expressing one's perceptions of nature as clearly and directly as possible. His work perfectly exemplifies this doctrine, with a lightness and a charm that can only be associated with the artist himself.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
Overall approx. 19.5" x 24"; image sight approx. 12.5" x 17.5".



Finger Lakes Auction has been commissioned to liquidate a once-in-a-lifetime fine art collection from an Upstate New York Estate. Pieces contained in this auction are some of the finest paintings ever to be offered through our Art Gallery.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall very good condition. Signs of age are visible on reverse side of canvas. Frame itself is structurally sound and shows no notable signs of aesthetic damage. The artwork is rich, vibrant, and full of life. Please see photos for further detail.