Pierre Matossy – The Temple Of Segesta In Sicily – Watercolor And Gouache – Signed And Dated 1935

A large watercolor depicting the temple of Segesta, an ancient city located in Sicily, Italy.
The temple, composed of columns (an excellent example of Doric architecture), stands out on a promontory amidst rolling hills. The artist emphasizes the beauty of the setting: the hills stretch as far as the eye can see, covered in Mediterranean vegetation and lichens.
The use of watercolor and gouache creates beautiful effects of transparency and relief.

The work is located, signed, and dated in the lower left corner. It is in very good condition. This work is offered in its original varnished wood and fabric frame.

The artist
Pierre Matossy (1891-1969), was a French painter born in Bessé-sur-Braye and died in Ploubazlanec. From childhood, he lived in Paris with his family, but he refused the military career his mother desired, preferring to pursue an artistic path. He attended evening classes at the Montparnasse School of Drawing, then entered the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts after completing his baccalaureate.

Mobilized in 1914 during the First World War, Matossy was seriously wounded on the front, lost the use of his right arm, and had to relearn to paint and engrave left-handed during his long convalescence.

In 1920, he won the Grand Prix de Rome for engraving. His five-year stay at the Villa Medici nurtured his passion for Antiquity. Matossy developed a remarkable talent for depicting the vestiges of the ancient world. Between 1935 and 1937, he traveled to Spain, Italy, Greece, Syria, Lebanon, and Persia, bringing back works that were exhibited in Paris. He notably illustrated André Suarès' book, "Greek Temples, Houses of the Gods," demonstrating his fascination with ancient architecture.

Upon his return, he produced numerous works: paintings, watercolors, engravings, as well as decorations for ocean liners (notably the Normandie) and posters for railway companies.

Matossy continued to travel throughout his life. He exhibited works created in Madagascar and on the African continent. In 1968, he traveled to New Caledonia, which marked his last major journey. Upon his return to France, he settled in Ploubazlanec where he painted seascapes until his death on August 25, 1969, while standing before his easel.

Artwork on display at the gallery (07240).
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