Alfred Godchaux : “putting Into The Water”

Alfred Godchaux (1839-1907): “Putting into the water”, oil on canvas 27 x 46 cm, mounted in a gilded frame with channels 42 x 60 cm. Three pieces on the back, barely visible signature at the bottom left, a label indicating the provenance Alphonse Terpereau, famous Bordeaux photographer. Circa 1870/80. “The Godchaux enigma finally resolved” was the title of the late Sylvio Brianti in his article on the famous artists. Indeed, the auctioneers attributing somewhat randomly the works bearing this signature sometimes to the father (Alfred 1839-1907) sometimes to the son (Eugène dit Emile (1878-1956), or even to the sculptor Roger (1878-1958), the researchers who relied on it contributed to perpetuating certain errors. His genealogical research in collaboration with Claudine Godchaux finally clarified many things... We therefore have here a work by Alfred, "Courbet's favorite rapin who taught him the profession to kicks with boots on the behind" but recognized his talent by telling him "You, you are a painter!", with the characteristic touch and palette, showing us a group of fishermen taking advantage of the tide to put a boat in the water, anchor , net, oars and buoys on the side to lighten the skiff. Do not hesitate to ask us for photos or additional information by email or telephone. Other photos and many other objects in our stores in Pau and Biarritz and on our website: gallerylhoste.com.