Painting, André, Petroff

Artwork: Ink and watercolor on panel by André Petroff This exceptional work by André Petroff (1894-1975) subtly combines ink and watercolor on panel, demonstrating the artist's technical mastery and artistic sensitivity. The fluid lines of ink precisely define the contours, while the watercolor washes bring a depth and luminosity characteristic of his style. The overall effect exudes a poetic atmosphere, reflecting the influence of Russian and French schools on his work. Signed lower left, this piece is a representative example of Petroff's Nice period, where he successfully integrated Russian artistic traditions with the cultural effervescence of the French Riviera. The work's generous dimensions offer a strong visual presence, ideal for enriching a modern art collection or for display in an elegant space. Artist Biography: André Petroff (1894-1975) Born on October 2, 1894 in Saint Petersburg, André Petroff was a Russian-born painter who left his mark on the artistic landscape of the 20th century. Trained at the Saint Petersburg School of Art and Decoration, he was a student of renowned masters such as Nicholas Roerich and Ivan Bilibin. After being drafted to Russia in 1914, he moved to Paris in 1919, where he continued his training at the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts, notably in the studio of Fernand Cormon. In 1923, Petroff settled in Nice, where he developed a unique style, merging the influences of Russian art with French artistic movements. His work, characterized by a vivid palette and dynamic composition, explores varied themes, ranging from portraits to scenes of everyday life. His works are held in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Musée de Grenoble, the Musée de Nice, and the Simu Museum in Bucharest. André Petroff died on March 17, 1975, in Cagnes-sur-Mer, leaving behind a rich and diverse artistic legacy. This work, combining the finesse of ink with the delicacy of watercolor, is a rare piece that will appeal to art lovers and discerning collectors.