$5,500
Paul Jean Clays (Belgian, 1817-1900) Sailing Vessels in a Harbor Signed "P. J. Clays" l.r. Oil on panel, 22 x 16 1/2 in. (55.9 x 41.9 cm), in a period frame. Condition: Minor scattered retouch, craquelure, surface grime. Provenance: From the Estates of Mary Ann and Frederick Lippitt, Providence, Rhode Island. N.B. Marine artist Paul Jean Clays was fascinated by the sea from an early age, and eventually dropped out of school at Boulogne to become a sailor. Clays left his life at sea to study art in Paris, first at the atelier Suisse and then with Horace Vernet. He then returned to Belgium where he studied with marine painter Jean-Antoine Théodore Gudin. Departing from the tempestuous sea views of his contemporaries, Clays' seascapes were subdued, filled with calm waters and clear skies. In these quiet scenes, Clays highlights subtle reflections in the water, the heaviness of the salty air, and bright light along the horizon. The retouch is several minor dashes. The craquelure is stable. The work might benefit from cleaning.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2007-11-16
