Frits Thaulow

 

Original canvas. There are areas of retouching visible under ultraviolet light, notably infilling to the horizontal craquelure in the sky, to a very small repair within the trees, and to darker areas of pigment in the water. There are scattered areas of craquelure and a horizontal stretcher mark at the centre of the canvas. This work exhibits rich colours and tones, and has a clean surface. Held in a simple, gold-painted moulded plaster and wood frame with a beaded inner accent.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Painted in 1901.

Quimperlé is a small town in Brittany, in the department of Finistère, where Thaulow spent the months of July to November 1901. The present work depicts the river Ellé, one of two rivers flowing through Quimperlé, and the Pont Fleuri, surrounded by autumn splendour. Thaulow initially came to the town to simply paint studies, but it proved inspiring, and he encouraged friends such as Auguste Rodin and Christian Krohg to visit, writing Erik Werenskiold on 20 November 1901: 'In the beginning of the summer I found Bretagne somewhat monotone and drab ....but October and November have been outstanding' (Frits Thaulow, Collection of Letters of the Nasjonalbibliotekets, no. 98).