Impressionist and Modern Art

We wish to thank Madame Fanny Guillon-Laffaille for kindly confirming the authenticity of the present work, which will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, under the number As-1890.

Provenance:

The Artist.

Acquired directly from the above.

Perls Galleries, New York, New York.

(Likely) acquired directly from the above by the family of the present owner.

Literature:

"Raoul Dufy in America," Life, January 22, 1951, p. 65, illustrated.

Lot Note:

In 1950, at age 73, Raoul Dufy traveled to Boston for treatment of severe arthritis in his hands. Undaunted by his condition, the artist continued to paint, and created numerous watercolors of America from New England to Arizona during his sojourn. Upon the invitation of Life magazine, Dufy also visited New York City, where he depicted baseball games, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Trinity Church, among other scenes, all of which convey the lively energy of the city.

Many of the works he made while in New York were featured in the January 22, 1951 issue of Life, including the present work. The caption that accompanies the illustration of New York Billboards, 1950, is indicative of Dufy's ebullient view of the world: "Time's Square," thought the artist, 'was spectacular like a ballet.' 'Ah, le Kleenex' he murmured..." The bold and bright billboards of Times Square are a perfect vehicle for the French artist's vivid colors and expressive, rapid brushstrokes, which permitted him to capture the spontaneity and movement of the beating heart of the city that never sleeps. It is a fitting subject for a painter of modern life whose art unabashedly relished in joy and pleasure.