This lot consists of an oil painting on board, done in the brilliant style of Claude Venard (French, 1913-1999). A hand-painted inscription at lower right corner reads, "C. Venard". This framed piece measures approximately 14.5" x 22.5"; with an approximate image sight of 11.25" x 19".

A lively swarm of fractured shapes, both organic and geometric, are rendered within this picture. A fine example of post-Cubist abstraction. Bright reds, blues, yellows, and violets harmonize in a charmingly modern array, punctuated by suggestive glimpses of musical instruments, calendar dates, and flowers. A dynamic addition to any collection.

Reverse side of piece features a hand-painted inscription which reads, in part, "Claude Venard. 74 Rue de la Victoire. Paris."

Claude Venard (French, 1913-1999) was a formally trained still-life and post-Cubist painter. He was an active and individualistic artist in Paris during the early 20th century. His purposeful need to express himself as clearly and uninhibitedly as possible brought him into (and out of) some of the most definitive artistic circles of his time. For example, Venard enrolled at the École des Beaux-Arts, but would abandon his studies after only two days due to philosophical discord. In the late 1930s, he participated in a group exhibition that took a bold stance for the return to strict and traditional principles of craftsmanship: the Forces Nouvelles. It was Venard's contributions to this group show that prompted one critic to write the following in response: "Let's be young again! Painting is not dead. Its course has not stopped."

Claude Venard eventually broke from the Forces Nouvelles and began to explore abstraction. This would prove to be a highlight of his long and prolific career. By deconstructing form into distinct areas or planes, Venard aimed to not only show simultaneous viewpoints, but to emphasize the inherent flatness of the canvas itself. This breakthrough was revolutionary, and sealed Venard's legacy forever. From 1944 to 2000, Claude Venard held regular one-man shows throughout Europe, including one final retrospective just weeks before his death. Today his work is studied, sought after, and beloved for its spirit of boldness.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
Framed approx. 14.5" x 22.5"; image sight approx. 11.25" x 19".



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 good condition. Little to no signs of age or wear. Colors remain vivid and clear. Frame is structurally sound and the artwork shows no serious signs of aesthetic damage. Please review photos for further detail.